Versatile syringe platform

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and methods for medicament delivery. The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a delivery device for delivering a target amount of the medicament from a distal end of the device. The device may include a rod for moving a plunger that discharges the medicament from the distal end. The device may avoid or reduce deformation of the plunger during the discharge. The plunger motion may be stopped by detent that interacts with the rod. The apparatus and the methods may provide an operator indication of progress of stages of operation. The device may feature triggers corresponding to stages of medicament displacement from the device, such as pre-delivery stages, including priming.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

This application is a nonprovisional of U.S. Application No. 62/088,844,which was filed on Dec. 8, 2014, and is hereby incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

A pre-filled syringe is often used to deliver medicament into a patientby discharge of the medicament from the syringe.

Prior to discharge, the pre-filled syringe often contains the medicamentin a dischargeable form or, alternatively, in a form requiringconversion to the dischargeable form. The conversion often involvesmixing together medicament components initially maintained apart withinthe syringe.

Prior to discharge, the dischargeable form of the medicament is oftencontained within the syringe between a slideable syringe plunger and adistal inner end of the syringe defining a discharge orifice, theplunger sealing circumferentially against an interior wall of thesyringe.

A seal may require force to be dislodged from the interior wall ifstatic friction is substantial. If the force is applied by alongitudinal impulse, such as a push by an operator's thumb, the impulsemay provide enough energy to dislodge the seal, but may also compromisethe operator's control over the displacement of the plunger once theseal is dislodged.

With the syringe oriented distal end up, discharge of air from thesyringe (“priming”) may be effected by displacement of the plungertoward the distal inner end. Priming drives the air out through thedischarge orifice and a distally attached delivery needle, thus fillingthe needle with the medicament.

After priming, before initiation of delivery of the medicament, theneedle is inserted into the patient. Delivery of the medicament iseffected by further displacement of the plunger toward the distal innerend. An extent of displacement of the plunger toward the distal innerend determines a volume of medicament delivered to the patient.

Typically, the extent of the plunger displacement delivering themedicament (“delivery stroke”) is limited by the plunger “bottoming out”against the distal inner end. Bottoming out typically involvesdeformation of a pliant material of the plunger, often against thedistal inner end, which may include a pliant material of aneedle-penetrated distal stopper.

The extent of the delivery stroke and, thereby, the volume of medicamentdelivered are often sensitive to deformation of the plunger and/or thestopper. Extent of such deformation is often not reliably repeatable.Bottoming out may not provide a reliable delivery mechanism for lowvolume of the medicament.

Operator manipulation to effect stages of syringe operation—such asmixing, priming or delivery—impacts volume of medicament remaining inthe syringe at initiation of delivery. Typically, there is little or nofeedback indicating to an operator when, during the manipulation,pre-delivery stages have been completed and when to initiate delivery.Without such indication of progress of stages of syringe operation,medicament to be delivered may be lost before initiation of delivery.Alternatively, the volume of medicament remaining in the syringe afterpre-delivery stages may exceed a desired delivery volume. For low volumedelivery, such loss or excess of medicament may represent a significantportion of the desired volume.

It would be desirable, therefore, to provide apparatus and methods forlow volume medicament delivery with improved reliability over bottomingout.

It would also, therefore, be desirable to provide apparatus and methodsfor increasing the operator's control over the plunger displacementwhile dislodging the seal from the container wall.

Also, it would be desirable, therefore, to provide apparatus and methodsproviding indication of progress of stages of syringe operation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent uponconsideration of the following detailed description, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencecharacters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with principlesof the invention, including a cutaway of external features providing aview of internal features of the apparatus;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.2 , the view taken along lines A-A (shown in FIG. 2 );

FIG. 2B is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.2 , the view taken along lines B-B (shown in FIG. 2 );

FIG. 2C is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.2 , the view taken along lines C-C (shown in FIG. 2 );

FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.1 , the view taken along lines 3-3 (shown in FIG. 1 );

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 4B is an enlarged detail of the apparatus shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 10 is an end-view of apparatus in accordance with the principles ofthe invention;

FIG. 11 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention, including the apparatus shown in FIG.10 ;

FIG. 12 is another perspective view of apparatus shown in FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 13 is another perspective view of apparatus shown in FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 14 is an end-view of apparatus in accordance with the principles ofthe invention;

FIG. 15 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention, including the apparatus shown in FIG.14 ;

FIG. 16 is another perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 15 ;

FIG. 17 is an end-view of apparatus in accordance with the principles ofthe invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 17 ;

FIG. 19 is a perspective, partial cross-sectional view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 17 , the view taken along lines 19-19 (shown in FIG. 17 );

FIG. 20 is another perspective partial cross-sectional view of theapparatus shown in FIG. 17 , the view taken along lines 20-20 (shown inFIG. 18 );

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 17 ;

FIG. 22 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention, including the apparatus shown in FIG.17 ;

FIG. 23 is another perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 22 ;

FIG. 24 is an end-view of apparatus in accordance with the principles ofthe invention;

FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention, including the apparatus shown in FIG.24 ;

FIG. 26 is another perspective view of apparatus shown in FIG. 25 ;

FIG. 27 is another perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 25 ;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 29 is an exploded, perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG.28 ;

FIG. 29A is another perspective view of apparatus shown in FIG. 28 ;

FIG. 30 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.28 , the view taken along lines 30-30 (shown in FIG. 28 );

FIG. 31A is an enlarged detail of the apparatus shown in FIG. 29 ;

FIG. 31B is an enlarged detail of the apparatus shown in FIG. 29 ;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 33A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 34 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.33 , the view taken along lines 34-34 (shown in FIG. 33 );

FIG. 35 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.33 , the view taken along lines 35-35 (shown in FIG. 33 );

FIG. 36 is an end-view of apparatus in accordance with the principles ofthe invention;

FIG. 37A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 37B is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 38A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 38B is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 38C is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 40 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 40 ;

FIG. 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.41 , the view taken along lines 42-42 (shown in FIG. 41 );

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 43A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 54A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 55 is an exploded, perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG.54 ;

FIG. 56 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 57 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 58 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 59 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 60A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 61 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention;

FIG. 62 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 63 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 64 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 65 is a partial cross-sectional view of apparatus in accordancewith the principles of the invention;

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 67 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention;

FIG. 68 is an exploded, perspective view of apparatus in accordance withthe principles of the invention;

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 70 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 69 , the view taken along lines 70-70 (shown in FIG. 69 );

FIG. 70A is an enlarged detail of the apparatus shown in FIG. 70 ;

FIG. 71 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 70 ,the view taken along lines 71-71 (shown in FIG. 70 );

FIG. 72 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.70 , the view taken along lines 72-72 (shown in FIG. 70 );

FIG. 73 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of apparatus inaccordance with the principles of the invention;

FIG. 74 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 73 ,the view taken along lines 74-74 (shown in FIG. 73 );

FIG. 75 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.73 , the view taken along lines 75-75 (shown in FIG. 73 );

FIG. 76 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of apparatus inaccordance with the principles of the invention;

FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 76 ,the view taken along lines 77-77 (shown in FIG. 76 );

FIG. 78 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.76 , the view taken along lines 78-78 (shown in FIG. 76 );

FIG. 79 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 81 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of apparatusshown in FIG. 80 , the view taken along lines 81-81 (shown in FIG. 80 );

FIG. 82 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 84 is an exploded, perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG.83 ;

FIG. 85 is a partial exploded, perspective view of the apparatus shownin FIG. 83 ;

FIG. 86 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 85 ,the view taken along lines 86-86 (shown in FIG. 85 );

FIG. 87 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 88 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 85 , the view taken along lines 88-88 (shown in FIG. 85 );

FIG. 89 is another view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 88 ;

FIG. 90 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 91 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 90 , the view taken along lines 91-91 (shown in FIG. 90 );

FIG. 92 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 90 ,the view taken along lines 92-92 (shown in FIG. 90 );

FIG. 93 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 93A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 94 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 93 ,the view taken along lines 94-94 (shown in FIG. 93 );

FIG. 95 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 95A is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 96 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 95 ,the view taken along lines 96-96 (shown in FIG. 95 );

FIG. 97 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention, including a cutaway of external featuresproviding a view of internal features of the apparatus; and

FIG. 98 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention, including a cutaway of external featuresproviding a view of internal features of the apparatus;

FIG. 99 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention, including a cutaway of external featuresproviding a view of internal features of the apparatus;

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 101 is a partial cross-sectional, perspective view of the apparatusshown in FIG. 100 , the view taken along lines 101-101 (shown in FIG.100 ); and

FIG. 102 is a perspective view of apparatus in accordance with theprinciples of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus and methods for low volume medicament delivery are provided.The apparatus may be used to perform one or more steps of the methods.The methods may include methods for manufacture of one or more of theapparatus.

Exemplary embodiments are shown and described below. Features, includingstructures, materials, volumes, functions and other attributes that areshown and described in connection with any of the embodiments may becombined, in whole or in part, with each other or included, in whole orin part, in other embodiments.

The apparatus and methods may deliver a predetermined low volume ofmedicament. The predetermined low volume of medicament may include apredetermined amount of the medicament. The predetermined low volume ofmedicament may include a target amount of the medicament. The deliverymay involve a syringe delivery stroke. The delivery stroke may involvedistal displacement of the medicament by a plunger rod. The plunger rodmay include a track. The track may have a predetermined length along therod. The track may include a terminal surface. The terminal surface mayproximally limit the predetermined length.

The operator may distally displace the rod through a plunger rod guide.The plunger rod guide may include a boss. The boss may be engaged withthe track. Distal displacement of the rod and, thus, the deliverystroke, may be terminated by abutment of the terminal surface againstthe boss. The abutment may leave a predetermined residual volume ofundelivered medicament in a space between a distal syringe stopperconfigured for medicament discharge and a slideable syringe plungerdistally displaced by the rod toward the stopper.

Hardness of materials of the rod and of the guide over materials of theplunger and of the stopper may facilitate reliable setting of thedelivery stroke and, thus, of the volume of delivered medicament,without volume uncertainties that may be associated with bottoming outof the plunger against the stopper.

The apparatus and methods may provide the operator indication ofprogress of stages of syringe operation, such as initiation and/orcompletion of stages of rod displacement, including the delivery strokeand pre-delivery stages such as priming. The guide may be configured todeflect in response to interaction of the boss with a trigger disposedalong the track. The trigger may be disposed at a position correspondingto initiation and/or completion of one of the stages. Deflection of theguide may indicate, for example, when to transition from syringe primingto the delivery stroke.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a deliverydevice for delivery of the medicament. The device may define alongitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may define a proximal directionand a distal direction. The longitudinal axis may define a radialdirection normal to the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis maydefine a circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis. Thedevice may have a distal end. The device may be configured to distallydeliver the predetermined amount of the medicament. The amount may haveany suitable volume, such as any of the volumes set forth above.

The device may include the plunger rod. The device may include a knob.The knob may include any suitable material, including that referred toabove in connection with the rod. The knob may be disposed at a proximalend of the device. The knob may be attached to the rod. The knob may beintegral to the rod. The rod and knob may constitute a unitary piece.

The knob may be turned about the axis. Turning the knob may turn the rodabout the axis. The knob may be pushed distally along the axis. Pushingthe rod distally may move the rod distally along the axis.

The knob may have a cross-section transverse to the axis. Thecross-section may be circular. The cross-section may be elliptical. Thecross-section may be of any suitable shape. Any suitable shape mayinclude a polygonal shape. The cross-section may be bordered by aperimeter.

The knob may include turn ridges along the perimeter. The turn ridgesmay facilitate traction on the knob. The turn ridges may facilitategripping the knob. The turn ridges may facilitate turning the knob.

The knob may include a proximal end of the knob. The proximal end mayinclude push features. The push features may facilitate pushing the rod.The push features may facilitate traction on the knob. The push featuresmay include a push pad. The push pad may be smoothly contoured. The pushfeatures may include push ridges. The push ridges may be concentricabout the axis.

The rod may define the track. The track may include a recess in the rod.The recess may extend radially into a cylindrical surface of the rod.The recess may extend along the cylindrical surface of the rod. Therecess may be a groove extending along the cylindrical surface. A radialdistance of a floor of the recess from the longitudinal axis may be lessthan a cylindrical radius of the rod.

The track may include a raised element. The raised element may extendradially outward from the cylindrical surface. The raised element mayextend along the cylindrical surface. The raised element may be a ribrunning along the cylindrical surface. A radial distance of a top of theraised element from the longitudinal axis may be greater than the rodradius.

The track may define the trigger. A border of the recess may define thetrigger. A portion of the raised element may define the trigger.

The track may include the trigger. The track may support the trigger.The track may directly support the trigger. A border of the recess maysupport the trigger. A portion of the raised element may support thetrigger.

The track may indirectly support the trigger. The track may include aflexible panel. The track may support the flexible panel. The flexiblepanel may support the trigger.

The track may be a first track. The rod may define a second track. Therod may define more than two tracks. The two or more tracks may bedisposed parallel to each other along the cylindrical surface.

The device may include the plunger rod guide. The guide may define apassageway. The rod may be disposed in the passageway. The rod may becoaxial with the longitudinal axis. The rod may be disposed, relative tothe longitudinal axis, distal-to-proximal parallel to the device. Thetrack may be proximal, along the cylindrical surface of the rod, to adistal end of the rod.

The guide may support the boss. The boss may be of a shape that is, atleast in part, cylindrical, cubic, pyramidal, tetrahedral, ellipsoidal,hemispherical or any other suitable shape. Any other suitable shape mayinclude prismatic. Any other suitable shape may include an irregularform of any of the listed shapes. Any other suitable shape may include atruncated form of any of the listed shapes. Any other suitable shape mayinclude a combination of two or more of any of the listed shapes. Thecombination may include dome-capped cylindrical. The combination mayinclude rounded-apex stepped tetrahedral.

The boss may engage the rod at the track. The boss may be positionedagainst a side of the track. The boss may be maintained alongside theside of the track. The flexible panel may be supported by the side ofthe track. The flexible panel may be substantially coplanar with theside of the track. The boss may be positioned against a running surfaceof the track. The boss may be maintained against a running surface ofthe track. The flexible panel may be supported by the running surface ofthe track. The flexible panel may be substantially coplanar with therunning surface of the track. The running surface may be the floor ofthe recess. The running surface may be the top of the raised element.

The boss may extend radially into the track. The boss may extend intothe recess. The boss may be positioned within the recess. The boss maybe maintained within the recess.

The boss may be positioned adjacent the raised element. The boss may bemaintained adjacent the raised element. The boss may be positionedagainst a top of the raised element. The boss may be positionedalongside the rib. The boss may be maintained alongside the rib. Theboss may be positioned straddling the rib.

The boss and the trigger may interact. The guide may be configured todeflect responsive to interaction between the boss and the trigger. Theguide may be configured to deflect radially relative to the longitudinalaxis.

The flexible panel may be configured to deflect responsive to theinteraction between the boss and the trigger. The flexible panel may beconfigured to deflect radially relative to the longitudinal axis. Theflexible panel may be configured to deflect radially relative to therod. The flexible panel may be configured to deflect radially relativeto the running surface of the track. The flexible panel may beconfigured to deflect laterally relative to the longitudinal axis. Theflexible panel may be configured to deflect laterally relative to theside of the track.

Deflection of the guide and deflection of the flexible panel may occursimultaneously, each responsive to the interaction of the boss and thetrigger.

The guide may be configured such that the boss does not substantiallydeflect in response to the interaction of the boss and the trigger.Deflection of the flexible panel may be enhanced by the guide beingconfigured such that the boss does not substantially deflect in responseto the interaction of the boss and the trigger.

The rod may be configured without the flexible panel.

The trigger may include a protrusion. The protrusion may be supported bya border of the recess. The protrusion may be supported by a portion ofthe raised element. The protrusion may be supported by a portion of theflexible panel. The protrusion may be of any suitable shape forinteraction with the boss. The trigger may include a thickened side ofthe track. The trigger may define a constriction in a width of thetrack.

The interaction may be an interference between the boss and the trigger.The guide may be configured to deflect away from the longitudinal axis.The flexible panel may be configured to deflect toward the longitudinalaxis.

The trigger may include a depression. The depression may be defined by aborder of the recess. The depression may be defined by a portion of theraised element. The depression may be defined by a portion of theflexible panel. The depression may be of any suitable shape forinteraction with the boss. The trigger may include a thinned side of thetrack. The trigger may define a widening of the track.

The interaction may be an urging of the boss against the trigger. Theguide may be configured to deflect toward the longitudinal axis. Theflexible panel may be configured to deflect away from the longitudinalaxis.

The device may include a housing. The housing may be disposed coaxialwith the longitudinal axis. The housing may be disposed, relative to thelongitudinal axis, distal-to-proximal parallel to the device. Thehousing may define an opening. The opening may be disposed proximally onthe housing. The opening may be a proximal housing opening. The guidemay be disposed in the proximal housing opening.

The guide may be part of the housing. The guide may be manufactured aspart of the housing. Manufacture of the guide as part of the housing maybe accomplished through a molding process. Manufacture of the guide aspart of the housing may be accomplished through an injection moldingprocess. Manufacture of the guide as part of the housing may beaccomplished through an overmolding process. The manufacture of theguide as part of the housing may be accomplished through a coinjectionprocess.

The guide may be separate from the housing. The guide may bemanufactured separately from the housing. The guide may be moldedseparately from the housing. The guide may be affixed to the housing.The guide may include guide-anchoring elements. The housing may includeguide-anchor-accepting elements structurally complementary to theguide-anchoring elements. The guide may be affixed to the housing bymating the guide-anchoring elements with the guide-anchoring-acceptingelements.

The device may include a medicament container. The container may bedisposed in the housing. The container may be disposed distal the guide.The container may define a bore. The bore may be bound by an interiorwall. The interior wall may define a substantially uniform diameteralong a segment of the interior wall.

The rod may be configured to be displaced distally, relative to thehousing, within the bore to discharge medicament from the container. Therod may be displaced distally until the boss abuts the terminal surfaceof the track.

The track may include the terminal surface. The track may support theterminal surface. The track may support the terminal surface proximallyto the trigger. The terminal surface may be a distal surface of aproximal end-wall of the track. The end-wall may be a sidewall of thetrack. The end-wall may be orthogonal to the side of the track. Theend-wall may be orthogonal to the running surface of the track. Theend-wall may block relative proximal movement, beyond the distal surfaceof the end-wall, of the boss along the track.

Abutment of the boss against the terminal surface may substantiallylimit motion of the rod in a distal direction. The track may includesidewalls. The sidewalls adjacent the terminal surface may substantiallylimit motion of the rod in a distal direction when the boss abuts theterminal surface. Track sidewalls adjacent to the terminal surface maysubstantially limit motion of the rod in a circumferential directionwhen the boss abuts the terminal surface. Track sidewalls distal to theterminal surface may substantially limit motion of the rod in a distaldirection when the boss abuts the terminal surface. Track sidewallsdistal to the terminal surface may substantially limit motion of the rodin a circumferential direction when the boss abuts the terminal surface.

Abutment of the boss against the terminal surface may substantiallylimit motion of the rod, subsequent to the abutting, to movement in aproximal direction away from the boss. The boss abutting the terminalsurface may limit motion of the boss, relative to the rod, to movementsubstantially axially away from the terminal surface.

The segment of the interior wall may include a distal portion. Thedistal portion may, in operation of the device, contact a bulk liquidresiduum of the medicament after the boss abuts the terminal surface.The distal portion may be wetted by the bulk liquid residuum even afterthe boss abuts the terminal surface. The distal portion may directlycontact the residuum. The distal portion may directly contact theresiduum even after the boss abuts the terminal surface.

The device may include the plunger. The plunger may be at least oneplunger slideably sealing against the interior wall. The plunger may bedisposed within the container. The plunger may be disposed distal therod. The plunger may be configured to slide distally responsive todistal displacement of the rod.

The device may include the stopper. The stopper may seal a distal end ofthe container. The distal end of the container may define a distalcontainer opening. A proximal body-section of the distal stopper may bedisposed within the distal container opening. The proximal body sectionof the distal stopper may seal against the interior wall of thecontainer proximal to the distal container opening.

The stopper may include a distal surface. The distal surface may bedisposed transverse to the axis. A distal body-section of the stopperproximal to the distal surface of the stopper may have an outer diametergreater than an outer diameter of the distal end of the container. Aproximal rim of the distal body-section of the stopper may seal againstan end-wall of the container surrounding the distal container opening.

The housing may include a distal retaining ridge. The distal retainingridge may be disposed transverse to the axis. The distal retaining ridgemay be part of an interior of a wall of the housing. The distalretaining ridge may be proximal to a distal end-wall of the housingsurrounding a distal opening of the housing. The distal opening of thehousing may be a distal housing opening. The distal housing opening mayhave an inner diameter. The inner diameter of the distal housing openingmay be smaller than an outer diameter of the distal body-section of thedistal stopper. The outer diameter of the distal body-section of thedistal stopper may be substantially the same as an outer diameter of thecontainer. The outer diameter of the container may be smaller than aninner diameter of the housing proximal to the distal retaining ridge.The container, with the distal end of the container sealed by the distalstopper, may be disposed within the housing between a distal aspect ofthe guide and the distal retaining ridge.

Prior to discharge of the medicament, the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the stopper and the at least one plunger.The stopper may configured to be penetrated by a needle. The needle mayhave a cannula. The cannula may be configured to distally transfermedicament discharged from the container. The cannula may be configuredto transfer medicament directly through the needle to the patient.

The cannula may be configured to transfer medicament indirectly throughthe needle to the patient. The needle may be a first needle. The devicemay include a second needle. The cannula of the first needle may beconfigured to transfer medicament to the second needle. The secondneedle may be configured to transfer medicament directly to the patient.The device may include a filter. The filter may be an in-line filter.The filter may be disposed between the first needle and the secondneedle. The filter may receive medicament discharged from the cannula ofthe first needle. The filter may filter medicament discharged from thecannula of the first needle. The second needle may receive medicamentfiltered by the filter. The second needle may transfer the medicamentfiltered by the filter to the patient.

The medicament may include a formulation of one or more compounds. Thecompounds may include naturally occurring substances. The compounds mayinclude substances derived from naturally occurring substances. Thecompounds may include synthetically produced substances. The compoundsmay include chimeric substances. The compounds may include engineeredsubstances. The compounds may include humanized substances. Thecompounds may include substances produced by recombinant techniques. Thecompounds may include substances modified by recombinant techniques.

The compounds may include a drug accepted for therapeutic treatment of apatient. The compounds may include a substance used in a therapeuticprotocol. The compounds may include a substance used in a diagnosticprotocol. The compounds may include a substance used in an experimentalprotocol. The compounds may include a substance compatible for use withapparatus and methods of the invention.

The medicament may include any medical agent listed herein, either aloneor in combination with one or more other listed medical agents or withone or more other, non-listed, medical agents. The medical agents mayinclude anti-glaucoma medications, other ocular agents, neuroprotectiveagents, antimicrobial agents, anti-inflammatory agents (includingsteroids and non-steroidal compounds), and biological agents includinghormones, enzymes or enzyme-related components, antibodies orantibody-related components, oligonucleotides (including DNA, RNA,short-interfering RNA, and other suitable oligonucleotides, such asantisense oligonucleotides), DNA/RNA vectors, viruses or viral vectors,peptides, and proteins. The medical agents may include anti-angiogenesisagents, including angiostatin, anecortave acetate, thrombospondin,vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinaseinhibitors, and anti-VEGF drugs, such as ranibizumab)(LUCENTIS®),bevacizumab (AVASTIN®), pegaptanib (MACUGEN®), sunitinib, and sorafenib,and any of a variety of known small-molecule and transcriptioninhibitors having an anti-angiogenesis effect; ophthalmic drugs,including glaucoma agents, such as adrenergic antagonists, includingbeta-blocker agents such as atenolol, propranolol, metipranolol,betaxolol, carteolol, levobetaxolol, levobunolol and timolol. Themedical agents may include platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)inhibitors and anti-PDGF drugs. The medical agents may includetransformation growth factor (TGF) inhibitors and anti-TGF drugs. Themedical agents may include anti-inflammatory agents includingglucocorticoids and corticosteroids, such as betamethasone, cortisone,dexamethasone, dexamethasone 21-phosphate, methylprednisolone,prednisolone 21-phosphate, prednisolone acetate, prednisolone,loteprednol, medrysone, fluocinolone acetonide, triamcinolone acetonide,triamcinolone, beclomethasone, budesonide, flunisolide, fluorometholone,fluticasone, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate and rimexolone; andnon-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents including diclofenac,flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, bromfenac, nepafenac, ketorolac, salicylate,indomethacin, naxopren, naproxen, piroxicam and nabumetone. The medicalagents may include anti-cytokine agents; the medical agents may includeanti-interleukin-6 agents such as tocilizumab (ACTEMR). The medicalagents may include anti-complement agents, including those targetingcomplement factor D (such as an anti-complement factor D antibody or anantigen-binding fragment thereof) such as lampalizumab, and thosetargeting complement factor H (such as an anti-complement factor Hantibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof). The medical agents mayinclude angiopoietin-specific agents, such as an angiopoietin-2 antibodyor an antigen-binding fragment thereof. The medical agents may includehuman growth hormone. The medical agents may include any suitablemedical agent.

The medicament may include one or more derivatives of any of theabove-mentioned medical agents. The medicament may include advancedforms of any of the above-mentioned medical agents. The medicament mayinclude mutated forms of any of the above-mentioned medical agents. Themedicament may include combinations of any of the above-mentionedmedical agents. The combinations may be incorporated into amulti-specific molecule. The multi-specific molecule may exhibitproperties of its constituent parts. The multi-specific molecule mayexhibit properties different from any if its constituent parts. Themedicament may include depots, hydrogels and pegylated forms of any ofthe above medical agents. The medicament may include any suitable formof any of the above medical agents.

Prior to discharge of the medicament, the medicament may be storedwithin the container. The medicament may be stored in a dischargeableform of the medicament. The dischargeable form of the medicament mayinclude all medical agents desired in a scenario—therapeutic,experimental or otherwise—for delivery, under desired conditions.Desired conditions may include therapeutic activity, medical agentconcentration(s), viscosity, pH, ionic strength or any other suitablecondition.

The medicament may be stored in a storage form of the medicament. Thestorage form of the medicament may require preparation of the medicamentfor discharge. The preparation of the medicament for discharge mayinclude conversion of the medicament from the storage form of themedicament to the dischargeable form of the medicament.

The storage form of the medicament may include a first component. Thefirst component may be stored in the medicament container. The storageform of the medicament may include a second component. The secondcomponent may be stored in the medicament container. The secondcomponent may be stored apart from the first component.

The first component may be a formulation of any of the above-mentionedmedical agents. The second component may be a formulation of any of theabove-mentioned medical agents. The first component may be a formulationthat, upon mixing with the second component, adjusts conditions of thesecond component. The second component may be a formulation that, uponmixing with the first component, adjusts conditions of the firstcomponent. Conditions may include therapeutic activity, medical agentconcentration(s), viscosity, pH and ionic strength.

The preparation of the medicament may include mixing the first componentand the second component. A mixture of the first component and thesecond component may include the dischargeable form of the medicament.

The storage form of the medicament may include a lyophilized productthat, when reconstituted, includes the dischargeable form of themedicament. Reconstitution of the lyophilized product may involve mixingthe lyophilized product with a reconstituting solution. The lyophilizedproduct may be the first component. The reconstituting solution may bethe second component. The second component may be in a liquid state.

The device may include a rod-contacting face. The distal end of the rodmay contact the rod-contacting face. The distal end of the rod mayconnect with the rod-contacting face. The distal end of the rod maycouple with the rod-contacting face. The rod-contacting face may bedistally displaced within the container in response to distaldisplacement of the rod within the container.

The at least one plunger may include a proximal plunger. Therod-contacting face may be associated with a proximal face of theproximal plunger. The proximal face of the proximal plunger may includethe rod-contacting face. The proximal plunger may be distally displacedwithin the container in response to distal displacement of therod-contacting face within the container. The proximal plunger may bedistally displaced within the container in response to distaldisplacement of the rod within the container.

The at least one plunger may include a discharge plunger. The dischargeplunger may be disposed within the container distal to the proximalplunger. There may be no other plunger within the container between thedischarge plunger and the stopper.

Prior to the mixing of the first component and the second component, thefirst component and the second component may be separated by thedischarge plunger. The first component may be sealed within thecontainer between the stopper and the discharge plunger. The secondcomponent may be sealed within the container between the dischargeplunger and the proximal plunger.

The container may include a bypass feature. The bypass feature may beconfigured to facilitate fluid communication bypassing a sealing surfaceof the discharge plunger. The bypass feature may include one or moregrooves, at least partly longitudinal with respect to the axis, recessedinto the interior wall. Prior to mixing, the sealing surface of thedischarge plunger may be disposed proximal to a proximal-most aspect ofthe bypass feature, sealing against the interior wall and maintainingthe second component apart from the first component.

The mixing may involve orienting the device with its distal end up andpenetrating the stopper to dispose the cannula through the stopper. Themixing may involve distal displacement of the rod-connecting face viadistal displacement of the rod. Distal displacement of therod-connecting face may distally displace the proximal plunger. Distaldisplacement of the proximal plunger may distally displace the secondcomponent. Distal displacement of the second component may distallydisplace the discharge plunger. Distal displacement of the dischargeplunger may slide a proximal-most circumferential portion of the sealingsurface of the discharge plunger along the interior wall to a positionjust distal to the proximal-most aspect of the bypass feature,facilitating distal flow along the bypass feature of the secondcomponent into the first component. Further distal displacement of theproximal plunger may not substantially displace the discharge plungerwhile the second component remains between the proximal plunger and thedischarge plunger. While the second component remains between theproximal plunger and the discharge plunger, distal displacement of theproximal plunger may distally displace the second component along thebypass feature, facilitating mixing of the second component with thefirst component.

A distal face of the proximal plunger may be complementary to a proximalface of the discharge plunger. Upon encounter of the distal face of thedistally displaced proximal plunger with the proximal face of thedischarge plunger, substantially no second component may remain betweenthe proximal plunger and the discharge plunger. When substantially nosecond component remains between the proximal plunger and the dischargeplunger, the mixture may include the dischargeable form of themedicament.

When substantially no second component remains between the proximalplunger and the discharge plunger, further distal displacement of theproximal plunger may further distally displace the discharge plunger. Adistal face of the discharge plunger may, upon being distally displacedtoward the stopper, distally displace the dischargeable form of themedicament.

A scenario in which the medicament is stored during device manufacturein the storage form may be accommodated by a configuration of the devicein which the at least one plunger includes the proximal plunger and thedischarge plunger and in which the container includes the bypassfeature. Such a configuration of the device may be termed a mixingconfiguration. In the mixing configuration, the rod-contacting face maybe associated with the proximal plunger.

A scenario in which the medicament is stored during device manufacturein the dischargeable form may require, in the container, neithermultiple plungers for sequestration of storage form components nor thebypass feature for mixing of components. When no mixing is to beperformed, the plunger may include only the discharge plunger. Aconfiguration of the device in which the plunger is the dischargeplunger and in which the interior wall does not include the bypassfeature, may be termed a non-mixing configuration. In the non-mixingconfiguration, the rod-connecting face may be associated with thedischarge plunger. The rod-contacting face may be associated with aproximal face of the discharge plunger. The proximal face of thedischarge plunger may include the rod-contacting face. The dischargeplunger may be distally displaced by distal displacement of the rodcontacting the proximal face of the discharge plunger.

The device may be manufactured as a “pre-filled” device. The device maybe manufactured with the container configured to store a volume of themedicament. The volume may be substantially determined duringmanufacture. The volume may be set with anticipation of loss ofmedicament that may result from manipulations of the device prior toperformance of the delivery stroke. Such manipulations may includemixing and priming. The volume may depend on the scenario for which thedevice is intended. Illustrative ranges of value of the volume mayinclude about 0.025 milliliter to about 0.05 milliliter, about 0.05milliliter to about 0.1 milliliter, about 0.1 milliliter to about 0.25milliliter, about 0.25 milliliter to about 0.5 milliliter, about 0.5milliliter to about 1 milliliter, about 1 milliliter to about 2milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 3 milliliters, about 3milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 5milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 6milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 8milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 9milliliters to about 10 milliliters, or any other suitable ranges.

The housing may include a housing wall. The housing wall may beconfigured to deflect in response to deflection of the guide. Thehousing wall may include a section that is displaced radially relativeto the longitudinal axis during the deflection of the guide. The sectionmay be a first section. The housing wall may include a second sectionthat is displaced radially relative to the longitudinal axis during thedeflection of the guide. Radial direction of displacement of the sectionor sections relative to the longitudinal axis may conform to radialdirection of the deflection of the guide relative to the longitudinalaxis. The displacement of the section or sections may be radiallyoutward. The displacement of the section(s) may be radially inward.

The device may include a finger flange. The finger flange may be part ofthe housing. The finger flange may be manufactured as part of thehousing. Manufacture of the finger flange as part of the housing may beaccomplished through a molding process. Manufacture of the finger flangeas part of the housing may be accomplished through an injection moldingprocess. Manufacture of the finger flange as part of the housing may beaccomplished through an overmolding process. The manufacture of thefinger flange as part of the housing may be accomplished through acoinjection process.

The finger flange may be separate from the housing. The finger flangemay be manufactured separately from the housing. The finger flange maybe molded separately from the housing. The finger flange may be affixedto the housing. The finger flange may have finger flange-anchoringelements. The housing may have finger flange-anchor-accepting elementsstructurally complementary to the finger flange-anchoring elements. Thefinger flange may be affixed to the housing by mating the fingerflange-anchoring elements with the finger flange-anchoring-acceptingelements.

The finger flange may be supported by the housing wall. The fingerflange may encompass the section(s). The finger flange may be configuredto deflect in response to the displacement of the section(s). The fingerflange may be configured to deflect in response to the deflection of theguide.

The guide may include an arm. The arm may be curved. The arm may supportthe boss. The arm may define the passageway. The arm may be a first arm.The guide may include a second arm. The second arm may be curved. Thesecond arm may define the passageway.

The first arm and the second arm may be joined at a hinge. The first armmay support the boss apart from the hinge. The hinge may be resilient.The first arm and the second arm may define a gap. The first arm maysupport the boss apart from the gap. The gap may be opposite the hinge.A width of the gap may change during the deflection of the guide. Thegap may widen during the deflection of the guide. The gap may narrowduring the deflection of the guide.

The housing wall may define a slot. The slot may be circumferentiallyaligned with the gap. A width of the slot may change during thedeflection of the guide. The slot may widen during the deflection of theguide. The slot may narrow during the deflection of the guide.

The finger flange may define an internal bay. The guide may be suspendedacross the bay. The guide may be suspended at an end of the guide. Thearm of the guide may support the boss apart from the end of the guide.

The guide may be suspended across the bay by a support member. Thesupport member may extend in a first direction. The bay may accommodatethe deflection of the guide. The bay may accommodate the deflection ofthe guide in a second direction. The first direction may besubstantially orthogonal to the second direction.

The support member may be configured to deform in response to thedeflection of the guide. Deformation of the support member may relievestress in the finger flange. The deformation of the support member mayincrease stress in the finger flange.

The finger flange may include an annular border. The border may define ahole. The hole may be adjacent the support member. The border may beconfigured to deform in response to deflection of the guide. Deformationof the border may relieve stress in the finger flange. The deformationof the border may increase stress in the finger flange.

The support member may be a first support member. The guide may besuspended across the bay by the first support member and by a secondsupport member. The guide, the support member(s) and the finger flangemay be manufactured as an integral piece. Manufacture of the integralpiece may be accomplished through a molding process. Manufacture of theintegral piece may be accomplished through an injection molding process.Manufacture of the integral piece may be accomplished through anovermolding process. The manufacture of the integral piece may beaccomplished through a coinjection process.

The housing may include a frame. The frame may define the proximalhousing opening. The frame may be disposed proximally on the housing.The proximal housing opening may be defined, by the frame, in thehousing wall.

The frame may be disposed coaxial with the longitudinal axis. Theproximal housing opening may be disposed coaxial with the longitudinalaxis. The frame may be disposed circumferentially about the longitudinalaxis. The proximal housing opening may be disposed circumferentiallyabout the longitudinal axis.

The guide may include a clip. The clip may be clipped onto the frame.The clip may be clipped onto the frame such that a central axis of theclip aligns with the longitudinal axis. The clip may be clipped onto theframe such that the boss extends radially inward through the proximalhousing opening toward the longitudinal axis. The clip may be clippedonto the frame such that the boss engages the rod through the proximalhousing opening. The clip may be clipped onto the frame such that theboss extends into close proximity of the track through the proximalhousing opening.

The clip may be a C-shaped clip. The C-shaped clip may be clipped ontothe frame in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

The guide may be configured to deflect within the proximal housingopening. The guide may be configured to deflect relative to the housing.An exterior surface of the guide may be configured to deflect relativeto the housing. An interior surface of the guide may be configured todeflect relative to the housing. The guide may be configured to deflectbeyond a surface of the housing. The guide may be configured to deflectoutwardly beyond an exterior surface of the housing. The guide may beconfigured to deflect inwardly beyond an interior surface of thehousing.

The track may include a tract. A length along the tract may correspondto the delivery stroke of the rod. The length along the tract maycorrespond to an extent of the delivery stroke. Movement of the bossrelative to the length may correspond to performance of the deliverystroke. Performance of a full extent of the delivery stroke maydischarge from the container a dose amount of the medicament. Thedelivery stroke may set the dose amount.

The length along the tract may be distal to the terminal surface. Thelength along the tract may be adjacent to the terminal surface. Thelength along the tract may be between the trigger and the terminalsurface. The length along the tract may be predetermined. The lengthalong the tract may be predetermined during manufacture of the device.

The delivery stroke may be predetermined during the manufacture of thedevice. Mechanical properties of the materials of, and manufacturedconfiguration of, the container and its associated stopper andplunger(s) and of the housing, guide and rod, may determine the deliverystroke. The full extent of the delivery stroke may be predetermined inmanufacturing.

The boss may provide a reactive surface. With the boss abutting theterminal surface, the reactive surface may limit distal displacement ofthe rod within the container. With the boss abutting the terminalsurface, the reactive surface may mechanically terminate the deliverystroke.

At termination of the delivery stroke, the distal face of the dischargeplunger may be proximal to, and at a non-zero distance from, a proximalface of the stopper. At termination of the delivery stroke, the bulkliquid residuum of the medicament contacting the distal portion of thesegment of the interior wall of the container may be maintained betweenthe distal face of the discharge plunger and the proximal face of thestopper.

The tract may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. Withthe boss engaging the rod at the tract, the reactive surface may limitrotational movement of the rod about the longitudinal axis. With theboss extending into the tract, the reactive surface may limit rotationalmovement of the rod about the longitudinal axis. A length correspondingto the delivery stroke may be a longitudinal length along the tract. Thelength corresponding to the delivery stroke along the longitudinal tractmay be between the trigger and the terminal surface.

The tract may be substantially helical about the longitudinal axis. Withthe boss engaging the rod at the tract, the reactive surface may convertrotational movement of the rod about the longitudinal axis into axialmovement of the rod along the longitudinal axis. With the boss extendinginto the tract, the reactive surface may convert rotational movement ofthe rod about the longitudinal axis into axial movement of the rod alongthe longitudinal axis. The length corresponding to the delivery strokemay follow a helical path along the tract. The length corresponding tothe delivery stroke along the helical tract may be given by anarithmetic product of a helical pitch of the helical path and a numberof helical turns (including any partial turns) between the trigger andthe terminal surface.

The device may be configured to provide indication of completion of thedelivery stroke. Indication of completion of the delivery stroke may betactile. Indication of completion of the delivery stroke may beacoustic.

Abutment of the boss against the terminal surface may indicatecompletion of the delivery stroke. Upon the boss abutting the terminalsurface, configuration and material(s) of the boss in conjunction withconfiguration and material(s) of the track supporting the terminalsurface may provide an operator-detectable mechanical vibrationtransmitted through the device and/or an audible sound. In scenarios inwhich a noise associated with the syringe during medicament delivery maybe undesirable (for example, if such a noise may startle the patient),configuration and material(s) of the boss in conjunction withconfiguration and material(s) of the track supporting the terminalsurface may provide the operator-detectable mechanical vibration absentthe audible sound or may provide neither the operator-detectablemechanical vibration nor the audible sound.

Deflection of the guide associated with the boss approaching abutmentagainst the terminal surface may provide indication of the abutment. Aradial distance, from the axis, of the running surface of the track mayvary along a length of the track distal the terminal surface. The guidemay deflect radially relative to the axis in response to interactionbetween the boss and the running surface.

The radial distance may decrease proximally toward the terminal surfacealong the length of track distal to the terminal surface. Theinteraction may include an urging of the boss against the runningsurface. The guide may deflect toward the axis as the boss is broughtinto abutment against the terminal surface. Deflection of the guidetoward the axis as the boss is brought into abutment against theterminal surface may provide indication of completion of the deliverystroke.

The radial distance may reach a minimum at a position of the bossagainst the track corresponding to the boss abutting the terminalsurface. The minimum may be a local minimum. The minimum may bemaintained along the remainder of the track adjacent the terminalsurface. The running surface may be configured such that the boss,having reached the minimum, is locked into its position at the minimum.The boss may be blocked proximally by the terminal surface and distallyby a slope of the running surface. The running surface may be configuredsuch that the rod is blocked from proximal movement along the axis uponthe boss reaching the minimum.

The track may include a distal longitudinal tract. The distallongitudinal tract may be substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis. The track may include a proximal longitudinal tract. The proximallongitudinal tract may be substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis.

The track may be a helix-containing track. The helix-containing trackmay include a helicoidal tract. The helicoidal tract may besubstantially helical about the longitudinal axis. The helicoidal tractmay be disposed medially on the rod. The helicoidal tract may bedisposed proximally to the distal longitudinal tract. The distallongitudinal tract may have a proximal portion. The proximal portion maybe adjacent, along the helix-containing track, to a distal portion ofthe helicoidal tract. The proximal portion of the distal longitudinaltract may be continuous, along the helix-containing track, with thedistal portion of the helicoidal tract. The helicoidal tract may bedisposed distally to the proximal longitudinal tract. The proximallongitudinal tract may have a distal portion. The distal portion may beadjacent, along the helix-containing track, to a proximal portion of thehelicoidal tract. The distal portion of the proximal longitudinal tractmay be continuous, along the helix-containing track, with the proximalportion of the helicoidal tract. The helix-containing track may becontinuous along the distal longitudinal tract, the helicoidal tract andthe proximal longitudinal tract.

The helix-containing track may be a rotary-delivery track. Therotary-delivery track may include the helicoidal tract disposed proximaland adjacent, and continuous with, the distal longitudinal tract, absentthe proximal longitudinal tract.

The track may be a collinear track. In the collinear track, a proximalportion of the distal longitudinal tract may be adjacent, along thetrack, to a distal portion of the proximal longitudinal tract, absentthe helicoidal tract. The distal portion of the proximal longitudinaltract may be continuous, along the collinear track, with the proximalportion of the distal longitudinal tract. The collinear track may becontinuous along the distal longitudinal tract and the proximallongitudinal tract. The distal longitudinal tract and the proximallongitudinal tract may be collinear.

The trigger may be a first trigger. The proximal portion of the distallongitudinal tract may include the first trigger. The first trigger maybe defined by the proximal portion of the distal longitudinal tract. Thefirst trigger may be supported by the proximal portion of the distallongitudinal tract. The first trigger and the boss may interact.Responsive to interaction of the first trigger and the boss, the guidemay deflect. The guide deflecting responsive to interaction of the firsttrigger and the boss may be a first guide-deflection.

The flexible panel may include the first trigger. The first trigger maybe defined by the flexible panel. The first trigger may be supported bythe flexible panel. Responsive to interaction of the first trigger andthe boss, the flexible panel may deflect. The flexible panel deflectingresponsive to interaction of the first trigger and the boss may be afirst panel-deflection.

The first guide-deflection and/or the first panel-deflection maycorrespond to a first stage of distal displacement of the rod in thecontainer. The first stage may be an initial distal displacement of therod. The initial displacement may position the rod in the device priorto operation of the device.

The initial displacement may position the rod with the boss engaging therod such that likelihood of inadvertent proximal slippage of the rod outof the device is reduced. The initial displacement may position the rodwith the boss engaging the rod such that the rod is substantiallyblocked from inadvertent further distal displacement. The initialdisplacement may position the rod with the boss engaging the rod suchthat further displacement of the rod may involve intentionalmanipulation on the part of the operator. The initial displacement maybe performed as a manufacturing step.

The rod may include a second trigger. The second trigger may have none,some or all of the features and functions of the first trigger. Thetrack may include the second trigger. The track may define the secondtrigger. The track may support the second trigger. The flexible panelmay include the second trigger. The flexible panel may define the secondtrigger. The flexible panel may support the second trigger.

The second trigger and the boss may interact. Responsive to interactionof the second trigger and the boss, the guide may deflect. The guidedeflecting responsive to interaction of the second trigger and the bossmay be a second guide-deflection.

Responsive to interaction of the second trigger and the boss, theflexible panel may deflect. The flexible panel deflecting responsive tointeraction of the second trigger and the boss may be a secondpanel-deflection.

The second guide-deflection and/or the second panel-deflection maycorrespond to a second stage of distal displacement of the rod in thecontainer. The second stage may be a second distal displacement of therod. The second displacement may position the rod in the device duringoperation of the device. The second displacement may be performed duringoperation of the device. The second displacement may be performed by theoperator.

A role of the second stage among the stages of syringe operation of thedevice may be determined by the configuration (mixing or non-mixing) ofthe device, geometry (helix-containing or collinear) of the track andlocation of the second trigger along the track.

Along the helix-containing track, the second trigger may be supported bythe distal portion of the helicoidal tract. Along the collinear track,the second trigger may be supported by the distal portion of theproximal longitudinal tract. The second stage may be an initiation ofoperation of the device. For the mixing configuration, the initiationmay include commencement of preparation of the medicament for discharge.For the non-mixing configuration, the initiation may includecommencement of priming of the device for delivery of the medicament.

Along the helix-containing track, the second trigger may be supported bya medial portion of the helicoidal tract. Along the collinear track, thesecond trigger may be supported by a medial portion of the proximallongitudinal tract. For the mixing configuration, the second stage maybe performed subsequent to the preparation of the medicament and mayinclude the priming. For the mixing configuration, the medial portion ofthe proximal longitudinal tract may be a first medial portion of theproximal longitudinal tract disposed distal to a second medial portionof the proximal longitudinal tract. For the non-mixing configuration,the second stage may include the delivery of the medicament.

Along the helix-containing track, the second trigger may be supported bythe proximal portion of the helicoidal tract. Along the collinear track,the second trigger may be supported by the second medial portion of theproximal longitudinal tract. For the mixing configuration, the secondstage may be performed subsequent to the priming and may include thedelivery of the medicament.

A proximal portion of the proximal longitudinal tract may support theterminal surface proximal to the second trigger. A proximal end-wall ofthe proximal longitudinal tract may support the terminal surface.

Along the helix-containing track, the length corresponding to thedelivery stroke may be a length along the proximal longitudinal tractbetween the second trigger, supported by the proximal portion of thehelicoidal tract, and between the terminal surface supported, proximalthe second trigger, by the proximal portion of the proximal longitudinaltract.

Along the collinear track, the length corresponding to the deliverystroke may be a length along the proximal longitudinal tract between thesecond trigger, supported by the second medial portion of the proximallongitudinal tract, and between the terminal surface supported, proximalthe second trigger, by the proximal portion of the proximal longitudinaltract.

Along the rotary-delivery track, the proximal portion of the helicoidaltract may support the terminal surface proximal to the second trigger. Aproximal end-wall of the proximal portion of the helicoidal tract maysupport the terminal surface. The length corresponding to the deliverystroke may be a length along the proximal portion of the helicoidaltract between the second trigger, supported by the proximal portion ofthe helicoidal tract, and between the terminal surface supported,proximal the second trigger, by the proximal portion of the helicoidaltract.

The track may be a first track. The rod may further define a secondtrack. The second track may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of the first track. The second track may be disposed on therod apart from the first track. The second track may be disposedparallel to the first track.

The first trigger may be supported by the first track. The secondtrigger may be supported by the second track.

The flexible panel may be a first flexible panel. The first track mayinclude the first flexible panel. The first track may support the firstflexible panel. The first flexible panel may support the first trigger.The second track may include a second flexible panel. The second trackmay support the second flexible panel. The second flexible panel mayhave none, some or all of the features and functions of the firstflexible panel. The second flexible panel may support the secondtrigger.

The boss may be a first boss. The first boss may engage the rod at thefirst track. The first boss may be positioned against a side of thefirst track. The first boss may be maintained against the side of thefirst track. The first boss may extend radially inward into the firsttrack. The first boss may be positioned against a running surface of thefirst track. The first boss may be maintained against the runningsurface of the first track.

The device may include a second boss. The guide may support the secondboss. The second boss may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of the first boss. The second arm of the guide may support thesecond boss.

The second boss may be disposed, relative to the longitudinal axis,diametrically opposite the first boss. The second boss may engage therod at the second track. The second boss may be positioned against aside of the second track. The second boss may be maintained against theside of the second track. The second boss may extend radially inwardinto the second track. The second boss may be positioned against arunning surface of the second track. The second boss may be maintainedagainst the running surface of the second track.

The interaction may include a first interaction. The first interactionmay involve the first boss and the first trigger interacting with eachother. The first guide-deflection may be responsive to the firstinteraction. The first guide-deflection may include a movement of thefirst boss relative to the longitudinal axis. The first guide-deflectionmay include a movement of the guide relative to the longitudinal axis.The first panel-deflection may be responsive to the first interaction.The first panel-deflection may include a movement of the first flexiblepanel relative to the longitudinal axis.

The interference may include a first interference. The firstinterference may involve the first boss and the first triggerinterfering with each other. The first guide-deflection may beresponsive to the first interference. The first guide-deflection mayinclude a movement of the first boss away from the longitudinal axis.The first guide-deflection may include a movement of the guide away fromthe longitudinal axis. The first panel-deflection may be responsive tothe first interference. The first panel-deflection may include amovement of the first flexible panel toward the longitudinal axis.

The urging may include a first urging. The first urging may involve thefirst boss and the first trigger being urged against each other. Thefirst guide-deflection may be responsive to the first urging. The firstguide-deflection may include a movement of the first boss toward thelongitudinal axis. The first guide-deflection may include a movement ofthe guide toward the longitudinal axis. The first panel-deflection maybe responsive to the first urging. The first panel-deflection mayinclude a movement of the first flexible panel away from thelongitudinal axis.

The interaction may include a second interaction. The second interactionmay involve the second boss and the second trigger interacting with eachother. The second guide-deflection may be responsive to the secondinteraction. The second guide-deflection may include a movement of thesecond boss relative to the longitudinal axis. The secondguide-deflection may include a movement of the guide relative to thelongitudinal axis. The second panel-deflection may be responsive to thesecond interaction. The second panel-deflection may include a movementof the second panel relative to the longitudinal axis.

The interference may include a second interference. The secondinterference may involve the second boss and the second triggerinterfering with each other. The second guide-deflection may beresponsive to the second interference. The second guide-deflection mayinclude a movement of the second boss away from the longitudinal axis.The second guide-deflection may include a movement of the guide awayfrom the longitudinal axis. The second panel-deflection may beresponsive to the second interference. The second panel-deflection mayinclude a movement of the second flexible panel toward the longitudinalaxis.

The urging may include a second urging. The second urging may involvethe second boss and the second trigger being urged against each other.The second guide-deflection may be responsive to the second urging. Thesecond guide-deflection may include a movement of the second boss towardthe longitudinal axis. The second guide-deflection may include amovement of the guide toward the longitudinal axis. The secondpanel-deflection may be responsive to the second urging. The secondpanel-deflection may include a movement of the second flexible panelaway from the longitudinal axis.

The first and second tracks, first and second triggers and first andsecond bosses may be configured to provide the first guide-deflectionand the second guide-deflection substantially simultaneously. The firstand second tracks, first and second triggers and first and second bossesmay be configured to produce the first guide-deflection and the secondguide-deflection non-simultaneously.

The first and second tracks, first and second flexible panels, first andsecond triggers and first and second bosses may be configured to providethe first panel-deflection and the second panel-deflection substantiallysimultaneously. The first and second tracks, first and second flexiblepanels, first and second triggers and first and second bosses may beconfigured to produce the first panel-deflection and the secondpanel-deflection non-simultaneously.

The first and second tracks, first and second flexible panels, first andsecond triggers and first and second bosses may be configured to producesubstantially simultaneity among the first guide-deflection, the firstpanel-deflection, the second guide-deflection and the secondpanel-deflection. The first and second tracks, first and second flexiblepanels, first and second triggers and first and second bosses may beconfigured to produce a predetermined sequence of occurrence and/or ofindication among the first guide-deflection, the first panel-deflection,the second guide-deflection and the second panel-deflection. Thesequence of occurrence and/or of indication may be predetermined duringthe manufacture of the device.

The device may be configured to indicate stages of the syringeoperation. The device may be configured to provide indication of stagesof the syringe operation. The device may be configured to indicatestages of the displacement of the rod. The device may be configured toprovide indication of stages of the displacement of the rod. The devicemay be configured to indicate the interaction of the boss(es) and thetrigger(s). The device may be configured to provide indication of theinteraction of the boss(es) and the trigger(s).

The indication of the interaction may signal initiation of the stageassociated with the interaction. The indication of the interaction maysignal completion of the stage. The indication of the stage may betactile. The indication of the stage may be acoustic. The indication ofthe stage may be visual.

Deflection of the guide and/or of the flexible panel(s) in response tothe interaction of the boss(es) and the trigger(s) may includeindication of the interaction. For example, the operator may receivetactile indication of interaction by feeling the deflection against theoperator's fingers during syringe operation.

The deflection of the guide and/or of the flexible panel(s) in responseto the interaction of the boss(es) and the trigger(s) may produceindication of the interaction. The deflection may cause components ofthe device other than the guide and/or the flexible panel(s) to deflect,transmitting and/or amplifying the deflection. The deflection and/or theother components deflecting may cause operator-detectable mechanicalvibration in the device. The deflection and/or the other componentsdeflecting may produce an audible sound, such as a snap and/or a click.

The indication may be concomitant of the deflection. The boss(es) movingalong the trigger(s) may produce the indication of the interaction. Theboss(es) moving along the trigger(s) may produce the operator-detectablemechanical vibration. The boss(es) moving along the trigger(s) mayproduce the audible sound. The other components may deflect closely uponthe deflection.

The indication may be attendant upon the deflection. The guide mayproduce the indication in returning to a non-deflected state after thedeflection. The flexible panel(s) may produce the indication inreturning to the non-deflected state after the deflection. After thedeflection, the boss(es) may re-contact sidewalls and/or runningsurfaces from which the boss(es) had been shifted by the interaction.Re-contacting the sidewalls and/or running surfaces may produce themechanical vibration. Re-contacting the sidewalls and/or runningsurfaces may produce the audible sound.

The deflection of the guide and/or a return of the guide afterdeflection to the non-deflected state, may provide theoperator-detectable mechanical vibration transmitted through the deviceand/or the audible sound. The deflection of the flexible panel(s) and/orreturn of the flexible panel(s) after deflection to a non-deflectedstate, may provide the operator-detectable mechanical vibrationtransmitted through the device and/or the audible sound. Deflection ofthe guide may cause deflection of the section or sections of thehousing. The deflection of the section or sections may provide theoperator-detectable mechanical vibration transmitted through the deviceand/or the audible sound. Return of the section or sections, afterdeflection, to the non-deflected state may provide theoperator-detectable mechanical vibration transmitted through the deviceand/or the audible sound. Deflection of the guide may cause deflectionof the finger flange. The deflection of the finger flange and/or returnof the finger flange after deflection to the non-deflected state, mayprovide the operator-detectable mechanical vibration transmitted throughthe device and/or the audible sound.

Different stages of the displacement of the rod may have differentindications associated with them. Different indications may differ byduration, amplitude or other suitable qualities. Other suitablequalities may include audio pitch.

One or more properties of one or more of the boss(es), the guide, thetrigger(s), the track(s), the rod, the flexible panel(s) and thehousing, may determine one or more of a duration of the indication, anamplitude of the indication and, for acoustic indication, an acousticpitch of the indication. The properties may include geometry, lubricity,resilience and other relevant properties. Other relevant properties mayinclude hardness. The properties may be set in the manufacture of thedevice to provide a desired indication of a stage of the displacement ofthe rod. The properties may be set in the manufacture of the device toprovide different desired indications of different stages of thedisplacement of the rod. For example, the trigger may be configured witha rough surface over which the boss would bump several times in runningagainst and along the trigger. The trigger may be a protrusion with asteep proximal slope configured to return the boss running over thetrigger to the running surface with a snap.

Steps of an illustrative method of use of the mixing configuration ofthe device are presented. The steps of the illustrative method describedherein may be performed in an order other than the order describedherein. Some of the steps described herein may be combined. Some of thesteps described herein may be omitted. Some embodiments of the inventionmay include steps that are not described in connection with theillustrative method.

Components of the apparatus of the illustrative method may be packagedat manufacture in sterile packaging. The apparatus may be intended foran ocular therapeutic scenario, the delivery stroke to deliver a desireddose of an ocular medicament into the eye of a patient. The device mayhave been pre-filled with the ocular medicament as a lyophilized productsequestered from a reconstituting solution.

The pre-filled device may have been packaged with the rod distallydisplaced through the guide into the container to the initial distaldisplacement just beyond the first trigger. Proximal to the firsttrigger, the track may include a distal helicoidal tract and a proximallongitudinal tract. The helicoidal tract may include a distaloperation-initiation trigger adjacent to the first trigger. Thehelicoidal tract may also include a medial priming-initiation trigger.The helicoidal tract may also include a proximal delivery-initiationtrigger adjacent to a distal portion of the longitudinal tract. Aproximal portion of the longitudinal tract may proximally end in theterminal surface supported by a proximal-most end-wall of the track.

A needle hub that includes the first needle and the second needle may bepackaged as a separate component from the pre-filled device. All distaldisplacements in the method may be relative to the medicament containerand/or to the device housing. The patient's eye is assumed to have beenprepared for injection. For purposes of simplicity of presentation, allsteps are presented as performed by a single operator.

The method of use may involve one or more of the following steps:

The operator may unpackage the pre-filled device and the needle hub. Aprotective sterility cap may be removed from the distal end of thepre-filled device to expose a distal exterior of the stopper. Theoperator may orient the distal end of the pre-filled devicesubstantially vertically upwards above the proximal end of the device,and penetrate the stopper with the first needle by securely affixing theneedle hub to the distal end of the housing.

Maintaining the orientation of the device, the operator may begin toturn the rod about the device axis to cause interaction of the boss andthe operation-initiation trigger. The interaction may be indicatedacoustically. The interaction may be indicated acoustically by theaudible sound. The sound may be a click. The sound may be a snap. Theinteraction may be indicated tactilely. The interaction may be indicatedtactilely by a device-mediated mechanical vibration. With furtherturning of the rod, the operator may displace the rod distally withinthe container, distally displacing the proximal plunger, thereconstituting solution and the discharge plunger until a proximal-mostcircumferential portion of the sealing surface of the discharge plungerpasses the proximal-most aspect of the bypass feature, at which pointthe discharge plunger may stop being responsive to distal displacementof the rod. As the operator further turns the rod, the proximal plungerand the reconstitution solution may be displaced, the proximal plungerapproaching the substantially immobilized discharge plunger and thereconstituting solution flowing around the discharge plunger along thebypass feature. The reconstituting solution may mix with the lyophilizedproduct to reconstitute the ocular medicament. When the operator hasdisplaced all the reconstituting solution by turning the rod until thedistal face of the proximal plunger encounters the complementaryproximal face of the discharge plunger, the medicament may bereconstituted to the therapeutic activity, medical agentconcentration(s), viscosity, pH and ionic strength desired for thescenario.

Maintaining the orientation of the device, the operator may further turnthe rod just beyond the point of reconstitution to cause interaction ofthe boss and the priming-initiation trigger. The interaction may beindicated acoustically by the audible sound and/or tactilely by thedevice-mediated mechanical vibration. Indication of the interaction maybe different from the previous indication in amplitude, tone or otherproperties. The operator may tap the device to dislodge air bubbles fromthe interior wall to facilitate their gathering together at a highestelevation in the distal-end-up device. The operator further turning therod may distally displace the proximal plunger, the discharge plungerabutted proximally by the proximal plunger and the reconstituted ocularmedicament, all toward the needle-penetrated stopper, priming the deviceby discharging the air out the first needle and then out the secondneedle and filling the first and second needles with reconstitutedocular medicament.

At the point of the second needle filling with the reconstituted ocularmedicament, the operator further turning the rod may cause interactionof the boss and the delivery-initiation trigger. The interaction may beindicated acoustically with the audible sound and/or tactilely with thedevice-mediated mechanical vibration. Indication of the interaction maybe different from one or both of the previous indications in amplitude,tone or other properties. Immediately after the interaction of the bossand the delivery-initiation trigger, the boss may be engaged with thelongitudinal tract, blocking further turning of the rod. The indicationof delivery initiation may serve to cue the operator to bring the primeddevice into close proximity to the patient and, with whateverorientation of the device is most suitable for injection in this oculartherapeutic scenario, to carefully engage the second needle with thepatient's eye.

With the second needle engaged with the patient's eye, the operator mayinitiate the delivery stroke by beginning to push the rod distally alongthe device axis. The operator pushing the rod distally may distallydisplace the rod, the proximal plunger, the discharge plunger abuttedproximally by the proximal plunger and the reconstituted ocularmedicament, all toward the needle-penetrated stopper, discharging thereconstituted ocular medicament through the first needle and deliveringthe reconstituted ocular medicament into the patient's eye through thesecond needle.

The operator pushing the rod distally may move the terminal surfacecloser to the boss engaged with the longitudinal tract. The operator maycontinue to push the rod distally until bringing the terminal surfaceand the boss into abutment. The abutment of the terminal surface and theboss may terminate the delivery stroke. The abutment of the terminalsurface and the boss may complete delivery of the desired dose of theocular medicament. The abutment of the terminal surface and the boss maybe indicated by the cessation of distal movement of the rod and by anoperator-detectable device-mediated mechanical vibration.

The second needle may be disengaged from the patient's eye, the devicemay be put aside, and the operator may tend to the patient'spost-injection care.

The methods may include methods of manufacture of the medicamentdelivery device. The methods may include positioning a resilient armthat supports a boss, such that the boss is disposed at a radialdistance from the axis less than an inner radius of the device housing.The arm may define a passageway that is configured to guide the plungerrod that supports a track that supports a trigger. The methods mayinclude molding a plunger rod guide that includes the arm andaccommodates the passageway.

The methods may include securing the arm relative to the housing againstrotational displacement about the axis and against axial displacementalong the axis. The arm may be configured to deflect radially relativeto the axis in response to interaction of the boss and the trigger.

The methods may include securing the arm by molding the guide onto thehousing.

The methods may include securing the arm by fixing the guide to aproximal segment of the housing. Fixing the guide may include insertionof the guide axially, relative to the axis, into an opening in theproximal segment. Fixing the guide may include insertion of the guidetransversely, relative to the axis, into an opening in the proximalsegment.

The methods may include providing the rod. Providing the rod may includemolding the rod. The rod may be configured to be displaced within thehousing toward a distal end of the housing. The rod may support aterminal surface, such that, with the boss engaging the rod at the trackand with the boss abutting the terminal surface, the boss may provide areactive surface that limits further distal displacement of the rod.With the boss abutting the terminal surface, movement of the bossrelative to the rod may be limited to substantially axial movement awayfrom the terminal surface. With the boss engaging a longitudinal tractof the track, the boss may provide a reactive surface that limitsrotational movement of the rod about the axis. With the boss engaging ahelicoidal tract of the track, the boss may provide a reactive surfacethat converts rotational movement of the rod about the axis into axialmovement of the rod along the axis. The boss may engage the track byextending radially into the track. The boss may be engaged with thelongitudinal tract by extending radially into the longitudinal tract.The boss may be engaged with the helicoidal tract by extending radiallyinto the helicoidal tract.

The methods may involve election of materials for manufacture ofcomponents of the apparatus. The materials may be elected for theirmaterial properties. The material properties for which the materials maybe elected may facilitate operation of the apparatus. Materialproperties that facilitate operation of the apparatus may includechemical inertness, resilience, transparency and other suitableproperties. Other suitable properties may include hardness.

The plunger or plungers may include a plunger material. The plungermaterial may include polymeric material. The plunger material mayinclude elastomeric material. The plunger material may includethermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The plunger material may include naturalrubber. The plunger material may include a compound made from naturalrubber. The plunger material may include synthetic rubber. The plungermaterial may include a compound made from synthetic rubber. The plungermaterial may include silicone rubber. The plunger material may include acompound made from silicone rubber. The plunger material may includebutyl rubber. The plunger material may include a compound made frombutyl rubber. The plunger material may include a material elected toreduce interaction of the plunger or plungers with the medicament. Theplunger material may include a resilient material. The plunger materialmay include a material with a hardness less than about 80 Shore Adurometer (ASTM D2240 type A hardness scale). The plunger material mayfacilitate movement of the plunger or plungers within the container. Theplunger material may facilitate engagement of the plunger or plungerswith the inner wall of the container. The plunger material mayfacilitate sealing of the plunger or plungers against the inner wall ofthe container.

The plunger material may include a plunger lubricious coating. Theplunger lubricious coating may coat the plunger material. The plungermaterial may bear the plunger lubricious material. The plungerlubricious material may include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Theplunger lubricious material may include ethylene tetrafluoroethylene(ETFE). The plunger lubricious coating may include a material elected toreduce interaction of the plunger or plungers with the medicament. Theplunger lubricious material may facilitate movement of the plunger orplungers within the container. The plunger lubricious material mayfacilitate engagement of the plunger or plungers with the inner wall ofthe container. The plunger lubricious material may facilitate sealing ofthe plunger or plungers against the inner wall of the container.

The stopper may include a stopper material. The stopper material mayinclude polymeric material. The stopper material may include elastomericmaterial. The stopper material may include TPE. The stopper material mayinclude natural rubber. The stopper material may include a compound madefrom natural rubber. The stopper material may include synthetic rubber.The stopper material may include a compound made from synthetic rubber.The stopper material may include silicone rubber. The stopper materialmay include a compound made from silicone rubber. The stopper materialmay include butyl rubber. The stopper material may include a compoundmade from butyl rubber. The stopper material may include a materialelected to reduce interaction of the stopper with the medicament. Thestopper material may include a resilient material. The stopper materialmay include a material with a hardness less than about 80 Shore Adurometer. The stopper material may facilitate movement of the stopperinto the container. The stopper material may facilitate engagement ofthe stopper with the inner wall of the container. The stopper materialmay facilitate sealing of the stopper against the inner wall of thecontainer. The stopper material may facilitate sealing of the stopperagainst a distal end-wall of the container. The stopper material may beself-sealing around the first needle.

The stopper material may include a stopper lubricious coating. Thestopper lubricious coating may coat the stopper material. The stoppermaterial may bear the stopper lubricious material. The stopperlubricious material may include PTFE. The stopper lubricious materialmay include ETFE. The stopper lubricious coating may include a materialelected to reduce interaction of the stopper with the medicament. Thestopper lubricious material may facilitate movement of the stopper intothe container. The stopper lubricious material may facilitate engagementof the stopper with the inner wall of the container. The stopperlubricious material may facilitate sealing of the stopper against theinner wall of the container. The stopper lubricious material mayfacilitate sealing of the stopper against the distal end-wall of thecontainer.

The guide may include a guide material. The guide material may includepolymeric material. The guide material may include thermoplasticpolymer. The guide material may include delrin. The guide material mayinclude polypropylene. The guide material may include nylon. The guidematerial may include teflon. The guide material may includeacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The guide material may includepolycarbonate. The guide material may include polysulfone. The guidematerial may include acrylic polymer. The guide material may includepolymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The guide material may include a stiffmaterial. The guide material may include a material with a hardness morethan about 80 Shore A durometer. The guide material may include amaterial with a low coefficient of friction. The guide material mayinclude a material with a coefficient of friction of about 0.01 to about0.5.

The rod may include a rod material. The rod material may includepolymeric material. The rod material may include thermoplastic polymer.The rod material may include delrin. The rod material may includepolypropylene. The rod material may include nylon. The rod material mayinclude teflon. The rod material may include ABS. The rod material mayinclude polycarbonate. The rod material may include polysulfone. The rodmaterial may include acrylic polymer. The rod material may include PMMA.The rod material may include a stiff material. The rod material mayinclude a material with a hardness more than about 80 Shore A durometer.The rod material may include a material with a low coefficient offriction. The rod material may include a material with a coefficient offriction of about 0.01 to about 0.5.

The housing may include a housing material. The housing material mayinclude polymeric material. The housing material may includethermoplastic polymer. The housing material may include delrin. Thehousing material may include polypropylene. The housing material mayinclude nylon. The housing material may include teflon. The housingmaterial may include ABS. The housing material may includepolycarbonate. The housing material may include polysulfone. The housingmaterial may include acrylic polymer. The housing material may includePMMA. The housing material may include a stiff material. The housingmaterial may include a material with a hardness more than about 80 ShoreA durometer. The housing material may include a material with a lowcoefficient of friction. The housing material may include a materialwith a coefficient of friction of about 0.01 to about 0.5. The housingmaterial may include a material that is translucent. The housingmaterial may include a material that is transparent.

The container may include a container material. The container materialmay include polymeric material. The plunger material may includeamorphous material. The housing material may include thermoplasticpolymer. The container material may include glass. The containermaterial may include type 1 borosilicate glass. The container materialmay include cyclic olefin copolymer (COC). The container material mayinclude polypropylene. The container material may include PMMA. Thecontainer material may include a material that is translucent. Thecontainer material may include a material that is transparent.

The container material may include a container lubricious coating. Thecontainer lubricious coating may coat the container material. Thecontainer material may bear the container lubricious material. Thecontainer lubricious coating may include silicone oil. The containerlubricious material may facilitate movement of the plunger or plungerswithin the container.

For example, some embodiments may feature an ABS plunger rod disposed ina passageway of a delrin guide affixed to a PMMA housing. Theembodiments may feature, in a borosilicate glass container, siliconerubber plungers with PTFE coatings and a butyl rubber stopper with anETFE coating. The embodiments may feature ABS trigger protrusionsintegral to the ABS rod, the protrusions supported by parallelhelicoidal tracts of parallel helix-containing tracks of the mixingconfiguration. The embodiments may feature ABS end-walls of parallellongitudinal tracts of the helix-containing tracks, the end-wallsserving as terminal surfaces of the helix-containing tracks. Theembodiments may feature delrin bosses integral to the delrin guide, thedelrin bosses of truncated pyramidal shape and oriented within the guidein conformity with a helical pitch of the helicoidal tracts of thetracks. Some embodiments may feature any other suitable combination ofmaterials and/or geometries.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, determination ofthe extent of the delivery stroke by abutment of the rod material withthe guide material, the guide material fixed in place axially androtationally relative to the housing. The greater hardness of rodmaterial, guide material and housing material compared to the plungermaterial and the stopper material, may provide a greater reliability oflow volume delivery through abutment of the boss against the terminalsurface than provided by bottoming out a typical syringe plunger againsta distal inner end of a typical syringe.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a deliverydevice for delivering a target amount of medicament from a distal end ofthe device.

The device may include a collar. The collar may include any suitablematerial, including that referred to above in connection with the guide.The collar may be disposed coaxial with the axis. The collar may includethe boss and a projection. The device may include the plunger rod. Theplunger rod may be threadingly engaged, coaxially within the collar,with the proximal knob. The proximal knob may include a track. The trackmay include an annular tract. The track may include a longitudinaltract. The boss may slidingly engage the annular tract to longitudinallyretain the knob during a rotation of the knob about the axis. The bossmay slidingly engage the longitudinal tract during a longitudinaltranslation of the knob. The projection may slidingly engage alongitudinally extending structure of the rod to rotationally retain therod during the rotation. The rotation may drive the rod toward thedistal end.

The translation may be delimited by interference between the boss and aproximal terminal surface of the longitudinal tract. The translation mayadvance the target amount out of the distal end.

The longitudinal tract may intersect the annular tract. The rotation maybe delimited by abutment of the boss against a lateral surface of thelongitudinal tract. The longitudinal tract may retain the knobrotationally during the translation and may corresponds, in longitudinalextent, from the location of the abutment, to the target amount. Theinterference may limit motion of the boss, relative to the knob, tomotion that is directed away from the terminal surface and parallel tothe axis. The interference may terminate advancement of medicament outof the distal end.

The collar may include a bracket configured to retain, coaxially withthe knob, a medicament container. The container may define a bore boundby an interior sidewall that defines, along a segment of the sidewall, auniform diameter. A distal end of the rod may abut a plunger within thecontainer. The plunger may be slidingly engaged with the sidewall.

Before the translation, the plunger may seal a pre-delivery amount ofthe medicament between an inner distal end-wall of the container and theplunger. After the translation, a distal portion of the segment maycontact a bulk liquid residuum contained between the inner distalend-wall and the plunger. The amount of the medicament in the residuummay be an amount that is no greater than the pre-delivery amount lessthe target amount.

The rotation may set the pre-delivery amount. The rotation may preparethe medicament for delivery. The preparation may include mixingcomponents of the medicament within the container.

The plunger may be the first plunger and, distal to the first plunger,the second plunger may slidingly engage with the segment.

Prior to the mixing, a liquid component of the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the first plunger and the second plunger.The mixing may include transfer of the liquid component, within thecontainer, distally past the second plunger. After the mixing, thedistal face of the first plunger may abut the proximal face of thesecond plunger.

The preparing may include priming the container.

The priming may include the distal discharge of air from the container.

The knob may include the signage. The signage may provide an indicationof a stage of device operation. The collar may define a window. Thewindow may expose a portion of the signage. The portion may indicate,prior to the rotation, a medicament preparation stage of the deviceoperation. The portion may indicate, during the rotation, continuationof the preparation stage. The portion may indicate, after the rotation,a medicament delivery stage of the device operation.

The portion may indicate, after the rotation and prior to thetranslation, commencement of the delivery stage. The portion mayindicate, after the translation, completion of the delivery stage.

The abutment may provide tactile indication of completion of amedicament preparation stage of device operation. The abutment mayprovide acoustic indication of completion of a medicament preparationstage of device operation.

The interference may provide an indication of completion of a medicamentdelivery stage of device operation.

The longitudinally extending structure may extend along a length of therod that is disposed between a proximal thread of the rod and a distalend of the rod.

The longitudinally extending structure may support a surface featureconfigured to interfere with the projection to longitudinally retain therod from proximal movement.

The surface feature may have a proximal stop surface. The proximal stopsurface may provide blockage against distal movement of the projectionrelative to the surface feature. Distal to the stop surface, the surfacefeature may provide passage for proximal movement of the projectionrelative to the surface feature.

The projection may project radially inward. The projection may have adistal stop surface. The distal stop surface may provide blockageagainst distal movement of the projection relative to the surfacefeature. Proximal to the stop surface, the projection may providepassage for proximal movement of the projection relative to the surfacefeature.

The longitudinally extending structure may include a slot. The slot mayextend radially inward. The surface feature may extend, in a planetransverse to the axis, into the slot.

The longitudinally extending structure may include a rail. The rail mayextend radially outward. The surface feature may extend, in a planetransverse to the axis, radially outward from the rail.

The boss may include a flexible panel. The flexible panel may include afree end. The free end may be disposed more radially inward than anyother surface of the boss. The free end may be disposed more radiallyinward than any other part of the boss.

A running surface of the track may support the trigger. The free end maybe configured to, responsive to interaction between the free end and thetrigger, deflect relative to the axis when the panel passes by thetrigger.

The trigger may have a stop surface. The stop surface may be disposed ona plane transverse to the axis. The stop surface may be configured toblock passage of the free end in a direction opposite to the rotation.

The trigger may include the protrusion. The interaction may involve aninterference between the free end and the trigger. During the rotation,the panel may pass by the stop surface after passing by all othersurfaces of the trigger.

The trigger may include a recess. The interaction may include an urgingof the free end against the recess. During the rotation, the panel maypass by the stop surface before passing by any other surface of thetrigger.

The interaction may occur upon initiation of the rotation.

Prior to the interaction, the boss may be disposed adjacent a portion ofthe annular tract that is circumferentially most distant, in thedirection of the rotation, from the longitudinal tract. Prior to theinteraction, the trigger may limit motion of the free end along thetrack.

The interaction may occur upon completion of the rotation.

The trigger may be disposed on the annular tract at a juncture of theannular tract and the longitudinal tract. The trigger, following theinteraction, may limit rotary motion of the knob in a direction oppositethe rotation.

The deflection may provide an indication of the interaction. Theindication may be tactile. The indication may be acoustic.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a medicamentdelivery device having the longitudinal axis.

The device may include the collar. The collar may be disposed coaxialwith the axis. The collar may support a flexible panel and a projection.The device may include the plunger rod. The plunger rode may bethreadingly engaged, coaxially within the collar, with the proximalknob. The proximal knob may include the track that supports the trigger.

The panel may be configured to deflect, responsive to interaction withthe trigger, relative to the axis. The panel may slidingly engage thetrack to longitudinally retain the knob during a rotation of the knobabout the axis. The rod may include a longitudinally extendingstructure. The projection may slidingly engage the longitudinallyextending structure to rotationally retain the rod during the rotation.The rotation may drive the rod toward the distal end.

The track may include the annular tract. The track may include thelongitudinal tract. The annular tract may intersect the longitudinaltract. The panel may slidingly engage the annular tract during therotation. The panel may slidingly engage the longitudinal tract during alongitudinal translation of the knob. The longitudinal tract may retainthe knob rotationally during the translation and may corresponds, inlongitudinal extent, from the intersecting, to the target amount. Thetranslation may be delimited by interference between the panel and theproximal terminal surface of the longitudinal tract. The interferencemay limit motion of the panel, relative to the knob, to motion that isdirected away from the terminal surface and parallel to the axis. Theinterference may terminate advancement of medicament out of the distalend.

The collar may support the bracket. The bracket may be configured toretain, coaxially with the knob, the medicament container. The containermay define a bore bound by an interior sidewall that defines, along asegment of the sidewall, a uniform diameter. The distal end of the rodmay abut the plunger within the container. The plunger may be slidinglyengaged with the sidewall. Before the translation, the plunger may sealthe pre-delivery amount of the medicament between the inner distalend-wall of the container and the plunger. After the translation, thedistal portion of the segment may contact the bulk liquid residuumcontained between the inner distal end-wall and the plunger.

The amount of the medicament in the residuum may be an amount that is nogreater than the pre-delivery amount less the target amount. The distalportion of the segment may directly contact the residuum.

The rotation may set the pre-delivery amount. The rotation may preparethe medicament for delivery.

The preparation may include mixing components of the medicament withinthe container.

The device may include the first plunger and, distal to the firstplunger, the second plunger is slidingly engaged with the segment.

Prior to the mixing, a liquid component of the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the first plunger and the second plunger.The mixing may include transfer of the liquid component, within thecontainer, distally past the second plunger. After the mixing, thedistal face of the first plunger may abut the proximal face of thesecond plunger.

The preparing may include priming the container.

The priming may include distal discharge of air from the container. Thepriming may include distal discharge of an inert gas from the container.

The knob may include the signage. The signage may provide theindication. The indication may be an indication of a stage of deviceoperation. The collar may define the window. The window may expose theportion of the signage. The portion may indicate, prior to the rotation,the medicament preparation stage of the device operation. The portionmay indicate, after the rotation, the medicament delivery stage of thedevice operation.

The portion may indicate, during the rotation, continuation of thepreparation stage.

The portion may indicate, after the rotation and prior to thetranslation, commencement of the delivery stage. The portion mayindicate, after the translation, completion of the delivery stage.

The longitudinally extending structure may extend along a length that isdisposed between a proximal thread of the rod and a distal end of therod. The longitudinally extending structure may support the surfacefeature configured to interfere with the projection to longitudinallyretain the rod from proximal movement.

The surface feature may include a proximal stop surface. The proximalstop surface may provide blockage against distal movement of theprojection relative to the surface feature. Distal to the stop surface,the surface feature may provide passage for proximal movement of theprojection relative to the surface feature.

The projection may project radially inward. The projection may includethe distal stop surface. The distal stop surface may provide blockageagainst distal movement of the projection relative to the surfacefeature. Proximal to the stop surface, the projection may providepassage for proximal movement of the projection relative to the surfacefeature.

The longitudinally extending structure may include the slot that extendsradially inward. The surface feature may extend, in the plane transverseto the axis, into the slot.

The longitudinally extending structure may include the rail that extendsradially outward. The surface feature may extend, in the planetransverse to the axis, out from the rail.

The panel may be supported by the boss that is supported by the collar.In the rotation, the boss may be in sliding engagement with the annulartract. In the rotation, the panel may trail all other surfaces of theboss. In the rotation, the panel may trail all other parts of the boss.The panel may include the free end. The free end may be disposed moreradially inward than any other surface of the panel. The free end may bedisposed more radially inward than any other part of the panel.

In the rotation, the free end may trail all other surfaces of the panel.In the rotation, the free end may trail all other parts of the panel.

The running surface of the track may support the trigger. The free endmay interact with the trigger to produce the deflection when the panelpasses by the trigger.

The trigger may include the stop surface. The stop surface may bedisposed on the plane transverse to the axis. The stop surface may beconfigured to block passage of the free end in a direction opposite tothe rotation.

The trigger may include the protrusion. The interaction may be aninterference between the free end and the trigger. During the rotation,the panel may pass by the stop surface after passing by all othersurfaces of the trigger. During the rotation, the panel may pass by thestop surface after passing by all other parts of the trigger.

The trigger may include a recess. The interaction may include urging thefree end against the recess. During the rotation, the panel may pass bythe stop surface before passing by any other surface of the trigger.During the rotation, the panel may pass by the stop surface beforepassing by any other part of the trigger.

The interaction may occur upon initiation of the rotation. Prior to theinteraction, the boss may be disposed adjacent a portion of the annulartract that is circumferentially most distant, in the direction of therotation, from the longitudinal tract. Prior to the interaction, thetrigger may limit motion of the free end along the track.

The interaction may occur upon completion of the rotation.

The trigger may be disposed on the annular tract at a juncture of theannular tract and the longitudinal tract. Following the interaction, thetrigger may limit rotary motion of the knob in a direction opposite therotation.

Following the interaction, the panel may be circumferentially alignedwith the longitudinal tract.

The deflection may provide the indication of the interaction. Theindication may be tactile. The indication may be acoustic.

The longitudinal tract may include a lateral surface. The rotation maybe delimited by abutment of the boss against the lateral surface. Theabutment may circumferentially align the boss with the longitudinaltract.

The abutment may provide tactile indication of completion of themedicament preparation stage of device operation. The abutment mayprovide acoustic indication of completion of the medicament preparationstage of device operation.

The interference may provide indication of completion of the medicamentdelivery stage of device operation.

The methods may include a method of manufacturing a medicament deliverydevice. The methods may include providing the knob having the annularrecess that includes the surface from which extends the protrusion. Themethods may include providing the collar that supports the flexiblepanel that extends into an interior of the collar. The methods mayinclude positioning the knob coaxially within the collar so that a freeend of the panel extends radially inward beyond the protrusion and isdeflectable by the protrusion when the knob rotates relative to thecollar. The methods may include threadingly engaging the plunger rodwith the knob. The methods may include securing the rod against rotationrelative to the knob.

The providing a knob may include providing a knob that has alongitudinal recess. The longitudinal recess may intersect the annularrecess. The longitudinal recess may support the terminal surfaceconfigured to abut the panel.

The providing a collar may include providing a collar that includes theprojection. The securing may include engaging the projection with thelongitudinally extending structure of the rod.

The longitudinally extending structure may include the slot. Theengaging may include insertion of the projection into the slot.

The longitudinally extending structure may include the rail. Theengaging may include positioning the projection alongside the rail.

The methods may include providing a rod that includes an end supportinga thread that is engageable with the knob.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a deliverydevice for delivering a target amount of medicament from a distal end ofthe device. The device may include the collar disposed coaxial with theaxis. The collar may include the projection and the track. The track mayinclude an annular tract and a longitudinal tract. The device mayinclude the plunger rod. The plunger rode may be threadingly engaged,coaxially within the collar, with the proximal knob. The proximal knowmay include the boss.

The boss may slidingly engage the annular tract to longitudinally retainthe knob during a rotation of the knob about the axis. The boss mayslidingly engage the longitudinal tract during a longitudinaltranslation of the knob. The projection may slidingly engage thelongitudinally extending structure of the rod to rotationally retain therod during the rotation. The rotation may drive the rod toward thedistal end. The translation may be delimited by interference between theboss and the proximal terminal surface of the longitudinal tract. Thetranslation may advance the target amount out of the distal end.

The longitudinal tract may intersects the annular tract. The rotationmay be delimited by abutment of the boss against the lateral surface ofthe longitudinal tract. The abutment may circumferentially align theboss with the longitudinal tract. The longitudinal tract may retain theknob rotationally during the translation and corresponds in longitudinalextent, from a location of the abutment, to the target amount

The interference may limit motion of the boss, relative to the collar,to motion that is directed away from the terminal surface and parallelto the axis. The interference may terminate advancement of medicamentout of the distal end.

The collar may include the bracket. The bracket may be configured toretain, coaxially with the knob, a medicament container. The containermay define a bore bound by an interior sidewall that defines, along asegment of the sidewall, a uniform diameter. The distal end of the rodmay abut a plunger within the container. The plunger may be slidinglyengaged with the sidewall.

Before the translation, the plunger may seal a pre-delivery amount ofthe medicament between the inner distal end-wall of the container andthe plunger. After the translation, a distal portion of the segment maycontact the bulk liquid residuum contained between the inner distalend-wall and the plunger. The amount of the medicament in the residuummay be an amount that is no greater than the pre-delivery amount lessthe target amount.

The rotation may set the pre-delivery amount. The rotation may preparethe medicament for delivery. The preparing may include mixing componentsof the medicament within the container.

The plunger may be the first plunger and, distal to the first plunger,the second plunger may be slidingly engaged with the segment.

Prior to the mixing, a liquid component of the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the first plunger and the second plunger.The mixing may include transfer of the liquid component, within thecontainer, distally past the second plunger. After the mixing, thedistal face of the first plunger may abut the proximal face of thesecond plunger.

The preparing may include priming the container. The priming may includedistal discharge of air from the container. The priming may includedistal discharge of inert gas from the container.

The knob may include signage that provides an indication of the stage ofdevice operation. The collar may defines the window exposing the portionof the signage. The portion may indicate, prior to the rotation, amedicament preparation stage of the device. The portion may indicate,after the rotation, a delivery stage of the device. The portion mayindicate, during the rotation, continuation of the medicamentpreparation stage.

The portion may indicate, after the rotation and prior to thetranslation, commencement of the delivery stage. The portion mayindicate, after the translation, completion of the delivery stage.

The abutment may provide tactile indication of completion of themedicament preparation stage. The abutment may provide acousticindication of completion of the medicament preparation stage. Theinterference may provide the indication of completion of the medicamentdelivery stage of device operation.

The longitudinally extending structure may include the slot that extendsalong a length that is disposed between the proximal thread of the rodand the distal end of the rod. The longitudinally extending structuremay include a rail that extends along a length that is disposed betweenthe proximal thread of the rod and the distal end of the rod.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve a medicamentdelivery device having the longitudinal axis.

The medicament delivery device may include the plunger rod guide. Theplunger rod guide may include the passageway. The plunger rod guide maysupport the boss. The passageway may be coaxial with the axis and may beconfigured to receive the plunger rod. The plunger rod may define thetrack that supports the trigger. The guide may be configured to deflect,responsive to interaction between the boss and the trigger, radiallyrelative to the axis.

The device may include the finger flange. The finger flange may supportsthe guide. The finger flange may include a surface that defines, distalto the guide, a recess configured to receive a proximal portion of themedicament container. The recess may extend transverse to the axis. Thecontainer may be disposed coaxial with the axis.

Track may extend: radially inward from a cylindrical surface of the rod;and along the cylindrical surface.

The trigger may include a protrusion. The interaction may be aninterference between the boss and the trigger. The guide may beconfigured to deflect away from the axis.

The container may define a bore. The bore may be bound by an interioruniform diameter. The rode may be disposed in the passageway. The rodmay be configured to be displaced distally, within the bore, todischarge medicament from the container until the boss abuts a terminalsurface of the track. This may limit motion of the boss, relative to therod, to motion that is directed away from the terminal surface andparallel to the axis.

The segment may include a distal portion that, in operation, may contacta bulk liquid residuum of the medicament after the boss abuts theterminal surface. The distal portion of the segment may directly contactthe residuum.

The device may include one or more plunger. The plunger may slideablyseal against the interior wall. The plunger may be disposed distal therod. The plunger may be configured to slide distally responsive todistal displacement of the rod.

The device may include the stopper. The stopper may seal a distal end ofthe container. The medicament, prior to discharge of the medicament, maybe sealed within the container between the stopper and the at least oneplunger. The distal end of the container may be configured to beassociated with the needle. The needle may have a cannula. The cannulamay be configured to distally transfer the dose amount of themedicament. The dose amount may be discharged from the container.

The boss may abut the terminal surface prior to interference of a distalface of the plunger with an inner distal wall of the container. Theinner distal wall may have a component transverse to the axis.

The finger flange may be configured to maintain the container at leastpartly coaxial with the axis. The proximal portion of the medicamentcontainer may include a flanged lip. A contour of a section of theflanged lip may be complementary to a region of the surface defining therecess.

A proximal section of the rod may include a cylindrical surface. Thecylindrical surface may support the knob. The knob may encompass thesection. The knob may be coaxial with the axis.

The knob may be configured to be rotated about the axis and to belongitudinally translated along the axis, the rod being configured tomove, relative to the medicament container, in response to motion of theknob.

The knob may include signage. The signage may indicate a direction ofrotation about the axis associated with distal displacement of the rod.

The rod may be disposed in the passageway after the proximal portion ofthe medicament container is received by the recess.

The finger flange may include two or more sections that are configuredto snap together onto the proximal portion of the medicament container.The

The two or more sections may be mechanically complementary. The two ormore sections may be mechanically identical.

The finger flange may define an internal bay. The guide may be suspendedacross the bay by a support extending in a first direction, and, in asecond direction, the guide may be configured to deflect responsive tothe interaction between the boss and the trigger.

The first direction may be transverse to a proximal face of the fingerflange. The proximal face of the finger flange may be transverse to theaxis.

In the second direction, the bay may accommodate deflection of theguide.

The support may be a first support. The guide may be suspended by thefirst support and by a second support. The guide may be suspendedbetween the first support and by a second support.

The guide may be suspended proximal to the bay. The guide may besuspended at least partly within the bay.

The first direction may be transverse to the second direction.

The support may be configured to deform in response to the deflection.Deformation of the support may relieve stress in the finger flange.

The guide may include an arm. The arm may define the passageway. The armmay support the boss apart from an end of the guide from which the guideis suspended.

The rod second track may be disposed parallel to the first track and maysupports the second trigger. The first boss may engage the rod at thefirst track. The guide may support the second boss. The second boss mayengage the rod at the second track.

A first deflection of the guide relative to the axis may be responsiveto the first interaction between the first boss and the first trigger. Asecond deflection of the guide relative to the axis may be responsive toa second interaction between the second boss and the second trigger.

The tracks, triggers and bosses may be configured to provide the firstdeflection and the second deflection approximately simultaneously.

The track may be proximal, along a cylindrical surface of the rod, to adistal end of the rod. The track may support the terminal surfaceproximal the trigger. A length, along a tract of the track that isdisposed between the trigger and the terminal surface may correspond toa delivery stroke of the rod. The delivery stroke may discharge from thecontainer a dose amount of the medicament. The boss may engage the rodat the track and provides a reactive surface that, with the bossabutting the terminal surface, delimits distal displacement of the rodwithin the container, thus terminating the delivery stroke.

The boss may engage the rod at the track by being positioned against aside of the track. The boss may engage the rod at the track by extendinginto the track.

The tract may be substantially parallel to the axis; and, with the bossengaging the tract, the reactive surface may limit rotational movementof the rod about the axis.

The tract may be helicoidal about the axis; and, with the boss engagingthe tract, the reactive surface may convert rotational movement of therod about the axis into axial movement of the rod along the axis.

The track may support the second trigger. The first deflection of theguide, responsive to the boss interacting with the first trigger, maycorrespond to the first stage of distal displacement of the rod in thecontainer. The second deflection of the guide, responsive to the bossinteracting with the second trigger, may correspond to the second stageof distal displacement of the rod in the container.

The track may be disposed proximal, along the cylindrical surface of therod, to the distal end of the rod. The first trigger may be supported bya proximal portion of the distal longitudinal tract of the track. Theproximal portion may be adjacent a distal portion of an intermediatetract of the track. The intermediate tract may be disposed along thecylindrical surface between the distal tract and a proximal tract of thetrack. The first stage may be an initial distal displacement of the rod.The initial displacement may position the rod in the device prior tooperation.

The second trigger may be supported by a distal portion of theintermediate tract. The second stage may be an initiation of operationof the device.

The intermediate tract may be helicoidal about the axis. A helical pitchof a portion of the intermediate tract may be sufficiently high totransduce, with the boss providing a reactive surface in engagement withthe high pitched portion of the intermediate tract, a distally directedlongitudinal force applied to a proximal end of the rod into a rotaryforce. In operation, the rotary force may drive a rotation of the rod.The rotation may be included in the second stage.

The initiation may include preparation, for discharge, of themedicament. The preparation may include conversion of the medicamentfrom a storage form of the medicament to a dischargeable form of themedicament.

The storage form of the medicament may include: the first component; andthe second component stored apart from the first component. A mixture ofthe first component and the second component may include thedischargeable form of the medicament.

The preparation may include discharge of air from the container prior todelivery of the medicament.

The second trigger may be supported by the proximal portion of theintermediate tract. The proximal portion of the intermediate tract maybe adjacent the distal portion of the proximal tract. The proximal tractmay support the terminal surface.

The second stage may be initiation of delivery of the medicament.

A length along the proximal tract proximal to the second trigger anddistal to the terminal surface may correspond to the delivery stroke ofthe rod, the delivery stroke discharging from the container the doseamount of the medicament.

The intermediate tract may be at least partly parallel to the axis. Theintermediate tract may be at least in part parallel to the axis. Theproximal tract may be at least partly parallel to the axis. The proximaltract may be at least in part parallel to the axis. The proximal tractmay be circumferentially displaced from the intermediate tract. Theproximal portion of the intermediate tract and the distal portion of theproximal tract may be conjoined by an at least partly circumferentialtract of the track.

In operation, the delivery stroke may be enabled by a rotation of therod that shifts the boss, which may be engaged with the track, from theintermediate tract through the circumferential tract to the proximaltract.

The proximal tract may be displaced by about 90 degrees from theintermediate tract.

Tactile indication of completion of the delivery stroke may be providedby abutment of the boss against the terminal surface.

Deflection of the guide, responsive to the interaction occurring at astage of a distal displacement of the rod within the bore, may producean indication of the interaction, signaling initiation of the stage. Theindication may be tactile.

One or more properties of one or more of the boss, the guide, thetrigger, the track, the rod, the finger flange and the container maydetermine one or more of an amplitude of the indication and a durationof the indication. The properties may include geometry, lubricity andresilience.

The indication is may be acoustic.

One or more properties of one or more of the boss, the guide, thetrigger, the track, the rod, the finger flange and the container, maydetermine one or more of an amplitude of the indication, a pitch of theindication and a duration of the indication. The properties may includegeometry, lubricity and resilience.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a deliverydevice for delivering the target amount of medicament from the distalend of the device.

The collar may be disposed coaxial with the longitudinal axis. Thecollar may include a radial projection. The plunger rod may bethreadingly engaged, coaxially within the collar, with the knob. Theknob may be a proximal knob. The proximal knob may include an abutmentsurface. The abutment surface may be a distal abutment surface. Theprojection may slidingly engage a longitudinally extending structure ofthe rod to rotationally retain the rod during a rotation of the knobabout the axis. The longitudinally extending structure may extend alonga length that is disposed between a proximal thread of the rod and adistal end of the rod. The projection may interact with a surfacefeature of the longitudinally extending structure to longitudinallyretain the rod from proximal movement. The rotation may axially displacethe abutment surface proximally from a device index surface by adistance corresponding to the target amount. Interference between theabutment surface and the index surface may limit the distance an extentof distal translation of the rod, the translation advancing the targetamount out of the distal end.

The surface feature may include a proximal stop surface. The proximalstop surface may provide blockage against distal movement of theprojection relative to the surface feature. Distal to the proximal stopsurface, the surface feature may provide passage for proximal movementof the projection relative to the surface feature.

The projection may include a distal stop surface. The distal stopsurface may provide blockage against distal movement of the projectionrelative to the surface feature. Proximal to the distal stop surface,the surface feature may provide passage for proximal movement of theprojection relative to the surface feature.

The collar may include a bracket, distal to the projection. The bracketmay be configured to retain, coaxially with the knob, a medicamentcontainer. The container may define a bore bound by an interiorsidewall. The sidewall may define, along a segment of the sidewall, auniform diameter. A distal end of the rod may abut the plunger withinthe container. The plunger may be slidingly engaged with the sidewall.

Before the translation, the plunger may seal a pre-delivery amount ofthe medicament between an inner distal end-wall of the container and theplunger. After the translation, a distal portion of the segment maycontact a bulk liquid residuum contained between the inner distalend-wall and the plunger. An amount of the medicament in the residuummay be an amount that is no greater than the pre-delivery amount lessthe target amount.

The index surface, prior to the rotation, may be longitudinally offsetfrom the abutment surface and may be abutted against the abutmentsurface by a nonrotary distal shift of the knob toward the collar. Theshift may set the pre-delivery amount. The shift may prepare themedicament for delivery. The preparation may include mixing componentsof the medicament within the container.

The plunger may be a first plunger and, distal to the first plunger, asecond plunger may be slidingly engaged with the segment.

Prior to the mixing, a liquid component of the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the first plunger and the second plunger.The mixing may include transfer of the liquid component, within thecontainer, distally past the second plunger.

After the after the mixing, a distal face of the first plunger may abuta proximal face of the second plunger.

The preparing may include priming the container. The priming may includedistal discharge of air from the container. The preparing may includepriming the container. The priming may include distal discharge of inertgas from the container.

The device may include a rotatable indicator. The rotatable indicatormay be coaxially disposed within the collar. The collar may define awindow. The window may expose a sector of the indicator. The rotatableindicator may be longitudinally retained by the collar. The rotatableindicator may be rotationally linked to the knob.

The sector may provide signage. The signage may indicate, prior to therotation, a medicament preparation stage of device operation. Thesignage may indicate, after the rotation, the target amount.

The indicator may be configured to provide tactile indication ofcompletion of a medicament preparation stage.

The indicator may be configured to provide acoustic indication ofcompletion of a medicament preparation stage.

The indicator may be configured to provide tactile indication ofselection of the target amount.

The indicator may be configured to provide acoustic indication ofselection of the target amount.

The index surface may be a distal internal surface of the indicator. Theindex surface may be a proximal external surface of the collar. Theindex surface may be oriented transverse to the axis.

Nonrotary distal movement of the knob toward the collar may abut theindex surface against the abutment surface. The interference mayterminate advancement of the medicament out of the distal end. Theinterference may provide tactile indication of termination of theadvancement.

The apparatus may include, and the methods may involve, a medicamentdelivery device for delivering a target amount of medicament from adistal end of the device.

The device may include the collar. The collar may be disposed coaxialwith the axis. The collar may have a track. The track may include ahelical tract. The track may include the longitudinal tract. The devicemay include the plunger rod. The plunger rod may be disposed coaxiallywithin the collar. The rod may be engaged with the proximal knob. Theproximal knob may include the boss. The boss may slidingly engage thehelical tract during a rotation of the knob about the axis, the rotationadvancing the boss toward the longitudinal tract. The boss may slidinglyengage the longitudinal tract during a longitudinal translation of theknob.

The translation may be delimited by interference between the boss and adistal terminal surface of the longitudinal tract. The translation mayadvance the target amount out of the distal end.

The longitudinal tract may intersect the helical tract. The rotation maybe delimited by abutment of the boss against the lateral surface of thelongitudinal tract. The abutment may circumferentially align the bosswith the longitudinal tract. The longitudinal tract may retains the knobrotationally during the translation. The longitudinal tract maycorrespond in longitudinal extent, from a location of the abutment, tothe target amount.

The interference may limit motion of the boss, relative to the collar,to motion that is directed away from the terminal surface and parallelto the axis. The interference may terminate advancement of medicamentout of the distal end.

The collar may include a bracket configured to retain, coaxially withand distal the knob, a medicament container. The container may define abore bound by an interior sidewall that defines, along a segment of thesidewall, a uniform diameter. The distal end of the rod may abut theplunger within the container. The plunger may be slidingly engaged withthe sidewall.

Before the translation, the plunger may seal a pre-delivery amount ofthe medicament between the inner distal end-wall of the container andthe plunger. After the translation, the distal portion of the segmentmay contact a bulk liquid residuum contained between the inner distalend-wall and the plunger. The amount of the medicament in the residuummay be an amount that is no greater than the predetermined amount lessthe target amount.

The rotation may set the pre-delivery amount. The rotation may preparethe medicament for delivery. The preparing may include mixing componentsof the medicament within the container.

The plunger may be the first plunger and, distal to the first plunger,the second plunger may be slidingly engaged with the segment.

Prior to the mixing, a liquid component of the medicament may be sealedwithin the container between the first plunger and the second plunger.The mixing may include transfer of the liquid component, within thecontainer, distally past the second plunger. After the mixing, thedistal face of the first plunger may abuts the proximal face of thesecond plunger.

The preparing may include priming the container.

The priming may include distal discharge of air from the container. Thepriming may include distal discharge of inert gas from the container.

The helical tract may extend radially inward from an outer surface ofthe collar. The longitudinal tract may extend radially inward from theouter surface.

The knob may be disposed, along a length of the knob, concentricallysurrounding the collar. The slidingly engaged boss may extend radiallyinward.

The collar may include a longitudinal dock distal the terminal surface.The dock may be circumferentially aligned with the longitudinal tract.The knob may support the boss on a longitudinal arm extending distallybeyond the boss. The longitudinal arm may include a contour. The contourmay be complementary to a contour of the dock.

The abutment may circumferentially align the arm with the dock. This mayprovide an indication of completion of the rotation. The translation mayadvance the arm into the dock.

The helical tract may extend radially outward from the inner surface ofthe collar. The longitudinal tract may extend radially away, outward,from the inner surface.

The knob may be disposed, along a length of the knob, concentricallywithin the collar. The slidingly engaged boss may extend radiallyoutward.

The collar may have, along the outer cylindrical surface, signage. Aportion of the signage adjacent the helical tract may indicate themedicament preparation stage of device operation. A portion of thesignage adjacent the longitudinal tract may indicate a medicamentdelivery stage of the device operation. The location of the slidinglyengaged boss relative to the signage may provide the indication of thestage of the device operation.

The helical tract may support the trigger. The boss may be supported byan arm configured to deflect responsive to interaction between the bossand the trigger. The interaction may provide an indication of engagementof the boss at a location of the trigger.

The location of the trigger may be adjacent an end of the helical tract.The end may be a proximal end, the indication corresponding tocommencement of the rotation. The end may be a distal end, theindication corresponding to commencement of the rotation.

The indication may be tactile. The indication may be acoustic. Theabutment may provide tactile indication of completion of the medicamentpreparation stage of device operation. The abutment may provide acousticindication of completion of the medicament preparation stage of deviceoperation.

The interference may provide indication of completion of the medicamentdelivery stage of device operation.

Apparatus and methods described herein are illustrative. Apparatus andmethods in accordance with the invention will now be described inconnection with the FIGs. The FIGs. show illustrative features ofapparatus and method steps in accordance with the principles of theinvention.

The steps of the methods may be performed in an order other than theorder shown and/or described herein. Some embodiments may omit stepsshown and/or described in connection with the illustrative methods. Someembodiments may include steps that are neither shown nor described inconnection with the illustrative methods. Illustrative method steps maybe combined. For example, one illustrative method may include stepsshown in connection with another illustrative method.

Some apparatus may omit features shown and/or described in connectionwith illustrative apparatus. Some embodiments may include features thatare neither shown nor described in connection with the illustrativemethods. Features of illustrative apparatus may be combined. Forexample, one illustrative embodiment may include features shown inconnection with another illustrative embodiment.

Apparatus may involve some or all of the features of the illustrativeapparatus and/or some or all of the steps of the illustrative methods.Methods may involve some or all of the features of the illustrativemethods and/or some or all of the steps of the illustrative apparatus.

The apparatus and methods of the invention will be described inconnection with embodiments and features of illustrative devices. Thedevices will be described now with reference to the accompanyingdrawings in the FIGs., which form a part hereof. It is to be understoodthat other embodiments may be utilized and that structural, functionaland procedural modifications may be made without departing from thescope and spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows illustrative medicament delivery device 100. Deliverydevice 100 may define longitudinal axis L. Delivery device 100 is shownin a state that may be a pre-operational state. In the pre-operationalstate, delivery device 100 may be fully assembled. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 100 may be prepared for dischargeof medicament. In the pre-operational state, discharge of medicamentfrom delivery device 100 may not have begun.

Delivery device 100 may include proximal knob 102. Knob 102 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L.

Delivery device 100 may include plunger rod 110. Rod 110 may be acomponent of a mixing configuration. Knob 102 may be attached to rod110. Knob 102 may be part of rod 110. Knob 102 and rod 110 may becomponents of a unitary body.

Rod 110 may be disposed coaxial with axis L. Rotation of knob 102 aboutaxis L may result in rotation of rod 110 about axis L. Longitudinaltranslation of knob 102 along axis L may result in longitudinaltranslation of rod 110 along axis L.

Rod 110 may define operational track 120. Operational track 120 mayextend along a cylindrical surface of rod 110. Operational track 120 mayinclude a section that is substantially helical about axis L. Thesection of operational track 120 that is substantially helical aboutaxis L may include helicoidal tract 122. Operational track 120 mayinclude a section that is substantially parallel to axis L. The sectionof operational track 120 that is substantially parallel to axis L mayinclude longitudinal tract 124. Rod 110 may define pre-operational track130. Pre-operational track 130 may extend along a cylindrical surface ofrod 110.

Delivery device 100 may include plunger rod guide 140. Rod 110 may bedisposed in guide 140. Rod 110 may pass through guide 140. Guide 140 maydefine a passageway (not shown) in which rod 110 is disposed and throughwhich rod 110 passes.

Delivery device 100 may include medicament container 150. Container 150may be a component of a mixing configuration. Container 150 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Container 150 may be cylindrical. A distalportion of rod 110 may be disposed within container 150. The distalportion of rod 110 may define pre-operational track 130. In thepre-operational state, pre-operational track 130 may already have beenpassed through guide 140 into container 150. In the pre-operationalstate, operational track 120 may not yet have been passed through guide140.

Container 150 may contain medicament component 160 a. Container 150 maycontain medicament component 160 b. Container 150 may contain medicamentcomponent 160 a apart from medicament component 160 b. In thepre-operational state, medicament component 160 a may be maintainedapart from medicament component 160 b.

Delivery device 100 may include device housing 170. Housing 170 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Housing 170 may be cylindrical. Guide 140may be disposed in housing 170. Container 150 may be disposed in housing170.

Delivery device 100 may include finger flange 180. Finger flange 180 maybe separate from housing 170. Finger flange 180 may be attached tohousing 170. Finger flange 180 may be integral to housing 170.

Delivery device 100 may include needle hub 190. Needle hub 190 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Needle hub 190 may be attached to housing170.

FIG. 2 shows features of delivery device 100.

FIG. 2 shows knob 102. Knob 102 may have an elliptical shape about axisL (shown in FIG. 1 ). The elliptical shape may provide an operator ofdelivery device 100 tactile cues as to the circumferential orientationof rod 110 about axis L during an operational state of delivery device100. The elliptical shape may provide the operator visual cues as to thecircumferential orientation of rod 110 about axis L during theoperational state.

Knob 102 may include push ridges 204. Push ridges 204 may be utilized bythe operator to effect distal longitudinal translation of rod 110 alongaxis L. Push ridges 204 may contribute to traction on knob 102 foreffecting longitudinal translation of rod 110. Push ridges 204 maycontribute to ergonomic finger contact of the operator with knob 102 foreffecting longitudinal translation of rod 110. The finger contact withknob 102 through push ridges 204 may conduct tactile feedback to theoperator of an extent of distal longitudinal translation of rod 110along axis L.

Knob 102 may include turn ridges 206. Turn ridges 206 may be utilized bythe operator to effect rotation of rod 110 about axis L. Turn ridges 206may contribute to traction on knob 102 for effecting rotation of rod110. Turn ridges 206 may contribute to ergonomic finger contact of theoperator with knob 102 for effecting rotation of rod 110. The fingercontact with turn ridges 206 may conduct tactile feedback to theoperator of an extent of rotation of rod 110 about axis L.

Turn ridges 206 may be spaced circumferentially around knob 102. Turnridges 206 may be spaced regularly around a circumference of knob 102.Turn ridges 206 being spaced regularly about the circumference of knob102 may provide the operator a measure of an extent of rotationperformed.

Knob 102 may include turn direction signage 208. In the operationalstate, delivery device 100 may effect distal displacement of rod 110within container 150 in response to rotation of rod 110 about axis L inonly one of two rotational directions. Turn direction signage 208 mayprovide the operator with cues as to an effective rotational direction.The cues may serve as reminders before and/or during the operationalstate. The cues may be visual. The cues may be tactile.

As depicted, the effective rotational direction for distal displacementof rod 110 within container 150 in response to rotation of rod 110 aboutaxis L may be clockwise for delivery device 100. (For some embodiments,not shown, featuring operational tracks with a screw-sense opposite thatdepicted for helical sections of rod 110, counter-clockwise rotation maythe effective rotational direction. For some embodiments, turn directionsignage may provide cues for counter-clockwise rotation.)

Rod 110 may include terminal surface 212. Terminal surface 212 may be aproximal end of operational track 120. Operational track 120 may supportterminal surface 212. Terminal surface 212 may be a sidewall ofoperational track 120. Terminal surface 212 may be the sidewall mostproximally situated along operational track 120. Terminal surface 212may be an end-wall of operational track 120. Terminal surface 212 may bea sidewall of longitudinal tract 124. Terminal surface 212 may be thesidewall most proximally situated along longitudinal tract 124. Terminalsurface 212 may be an end-wall of longitudinal tract 124.

Rod 110 may define second operational track 221. Second operationaltrack 221 may extend parallel to operational track 120 along thecylindrical surface of rod 110. Second operational track 221 may bedisposed diametrically opposite to operational track 120 along thecylindrical surface of rod 110.

Second operational track 221 may include a section that is substantiallyhelical about axis L. The section of second operational track 221 thatis substantially helical about axis L may be helicoidal tract 223.Second operational track 221 may include a section (not shown) that issubstantially parallel to axis L.

Distal rod end 211 may define a distal end of pre-operational track 130.Pre-operational trigger 214 may demarcate a proximal end topre-operational track 130. Pre-operational trigger 214 may be aprotrusion supported by pre-operational track 130.

FIG. 2A shows rod 110 in a cross-sectional view taken along lines A-A(viewed along axis L toward knob 102) shown in FIG. 2 . Rod 110 may havea hollow core coaxial with axis L. The drawing presents an end-on viewof terminal surface 212 as the proximal end of operational track 120.The section of operational track 120 terminated proximally by terminalsurface 212 may be longitudinal tract 124. Longitudinal tract 124 may bedisposed symmetrically on the circumference of rod 110 about axis Lrelative to longitudinal tract 225. Longitudinal tract 225 may be thesection of second operational track 221 that is substantially parallelto axis L. Longitudinal tract 225 may be disposed on the circumferenceof rod 110 diametrically opposite longitudinal tract 124. Rod 110 mayinclude second terminal surface 213. Second terminal surface 213 may bea proximal end of second operational track 221. Second terminal surface213 may be a proximal end of longitudinal tract 225. Second operationaltrack 221 may support second terminal surface 213. Second terminalsurface 213 may be a sidewall of second operational track 221. Secondterminal surface 213 may be the sidewall most proximally situated alongsecond operational track 221. Second terminal surface 213 may be anend-wall of second operational track 221. Terminal surface 213 may be asidewall of longitudinal tract 225. Second terminal surface 213 may bethe sidewall most proximally situated along longitudinal tract 225.Second terminal surface 213 may be an end-wall of longitudinal tract225. Second terminal surface 213 may be disposed along rod 110 at adistance from distal rod end 211 substantially equal to a distance ofterminal surface 212 from distal rod end 211.

FIG. 2B shows rod 110 in a cross-sectional view taken along lines B-B(viewed along axis L toward distal end 211) shown in FIG. 2 . The hollowcore of rod 110 (shown in FIG. 2A) may not extend distally to lines B-B.Pre-operational track 130 may be disposed symmetrically about axis L onthe circumference of rod 110 relative to second pre-operational track131. Second pre-operational track 131 may be disposed on thecircumference of rod 110 diametrically opposite pre-operational track130. Second pre-operational track 131 may extend along a cylindricalsurface of rod 110. Distal rod end 211 may define a distal end of secondpre-operational track 131.

FIG. 2C shows rod 110 in a cross-sectional view taken along lines C-C(viewed along axis L toward knob 102). The drawing presents an end-onview of pre-operational trigger 214 as demarcating the proximal end ofpre-operational track 130. Pre-operational trigger 214 may be disposedsymmetrically about axis L on the circumference of rod 110 relative tosecond pre-operational trigger 215. Second pre-operational trigger 215may be disposed on the circumference of rod 110 diametrically oppositepre-operational trigger 214. Second pre-operational trigger 215 may be aprotrusion supported by second pre-operational track 131. Secondpre-operational trigger 215 may be disposed along rod 110 at a distancefrom distal rod end 211 substantially equal to a distance ofpre-operational trigger 214 from distal rod end 211.

FIG. 2 shows that distal rod end 211 may be inserted through guide 140.Guide 140 may define a passageway through which distal rod end 211 maybe inserted. The passageway through which distal rod end 211 may beinserted may be the passageway in which rod 110 may be disposed.

Guide 140 may include boss 242 a. Guide 140 may include boss 242 b(indicated in phantom lines). Boss 242 a and boss 242 b may besymmetrically disposed relative to each other about axis L about aninterior of guide 140. Boss 242 b may be disposed diametrically oppositeboss 242 a within the interior of guide 140. With insertion of distalrod end 211 through guide 140, boss 242 a may engage rod 110 at secondpre-operational track 131 (shown in FIG. 2B). Boss 242 a may extendradially into second pre-operational track 131. With insertion of distalrod end 211 through guide 140, boss 242 b may engage rod 110 atpre-operational track 130. Boss 242 b may extend radially intopre-operational track 130.

Guide 140 may include guide-tab 244 a. Guide 140 may include guide-tab244 b. Guide-tab 244 a and guide-tab 244 b may be symmetrically disposedrelative to each other about axis L about an exterior of guide 140.Guide-tab 244 b may be disposed diametrically opposite guide-tab 244 aabout the exterior of guide 140. Guide 140 may include seating collarsection 246 a, seating collar section 246 b 1 and seating collar section246 b 2.

A distal aspect of guide 140 may face a proximal opening of container150. A distal surface of guide 140 may abut a proximal end-wallsurrounding a proximal opening of container 150. Container 150 maydefine a bore bound by interior wall 252. A proximal portion of interiorwall 252 may define the proximal opening of container 150. A distalportion of interior wall 252 may define a distal opening of container150.

An exterior circumferential surface of proximal plunger 254 mayslideably seal against interior wall 252. A proximal face of proximalplunger 254 may be configured to contact distal rod end 211.Rod-contacting face 251 may be configured to contact distal rod end 211.Proximal plunger 254 may include rod-contacting face 251. The proximalface of proximal plunger 254 may include rod-contacting face 251.

An exterior circumferential surface of discharge plunger 256 mayslideably seal against interior wall 252. In the pre-operational state,discharge plunger 256 may sealingly maintain medicament component 160 aapart from medicament component 160 b. In the pre-operational state,medicament component 160 b may be sealingly maintained between proximalplunger 254 and discharge plunger 256. In the pre-operational state,medicament component 160 a may be sealingly maintained between dischargeplunger 256 and needle-penetrable stopper 258.

Needle-penetrable stopper 258 may seal the distal opening of container150. Needle-penetrable stopper 258 may abut a distal end-wallsurrounding the distal opening of container 150. An exteriorcircumferential surface of a proximal body-section of needle-penetrablestopper 258 may seal against the distal portion of interior wall 252. Adistal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 258 may have a diametersubstantially greater than a uniform diameter of the bore of container150. A proximal surface of a rim of the distal body-section ofneedle-penetrable stopper 258 may seal against the distal end-wall ofcontainer 150.

Container 150 may be disposed in housing 170 distal to guide 140.Container 150 may be disposed in housing 170 between guide 140 and adistal retaining ridge (not shown) of housing 170. The proximal end-wallof container 150 surrounding the proximal opening of container 150 mayabut the distal surface of guide 140. A distal rim of the distalbody-section of needle-penetrable stopper 258 may abut the distalretaining ridge of housing 170.

Guide 140 may be disposed in housing 170 in a proximal opening ofhousing wall 271. Housing wall 271 may support finger flange 180.Housing wall 271 may include a first wall section 275 a. Wall section275 a may be arcuate in cross-section transverse to axis L. Housing wall271 may include a second wall section 275 b. Wall section 275 b may bearcuate in cross-section transverse to axis L. Wall section 275 a andwall section 275 b may be symmetrically disposed relative to each aboutaxis L.

Guide 140 may be disposed in housing 170 between wall section 275 a andwall section 275 b. When guide 140 is disposed in housing 170 betweenwall section 275 a and wall section 275 b, guide-tab 244 a may beblocked from axially proximal movement by guide-tab lock 272 a. Aproximal side of a circumferential edge of guide-tab 244 a may bemaintained distal to a distal edge of guide-tab lock 272 a. Guide-tab244 b may be blocked from axially proximal movement by guide-tab lock272 b (indicated in phantom lines). A proximal side of a circumferentialedge of guide-tab 244 b may be maintained distal to a distal edge ofguide-tab lock 272 b.

Guide 140 may be seated in housing 170 against seating surface 276. Whenguide 140 is seated in housing 170, seating surface 276 may abut each ofseating collar section 246 a, seating collar section 246 b 1 and seatingcollar section 246 b 2. Seating collar section 246 a and seating collarsection 246 b 1 may be blocked from rotational movement about axis Lrelative to housing 170 by guide-tab lock 272 b. Seating collar section246 a and seating collar section 246 b 2 may be blocked from rotationalmovement about axis L relative to housing 170 by guide-tab lock 272 a.Seating collar section 246 a and/or seating collar section 246 b 1and/or seating collar section 246 b 2 being blocked from rotationalmovement about axis L relative to housing 170 may block guide 140 fromrotational movement about axis L relative to housing 170.

Housing 170 may include housing thread 278. Needle hub 190 may includehub thread 292. Needle hub 190 may be affixed to housing 170 bythreading together housing thread 278 and hub thread 292.

FIG. 3 shows delivery device 100 in a cross-sectional view taken alonglines 3-3 (shown in FIG. 1 ). FIG. 3 shows the proximal end-wall ofcontainer 150 disposed distal to guide 140. The proximal end-wall ofcontainer 150 may abut the distal surface of guide 140.Needle-penetrable stopper 258 may be disposed proximal to distalretaining ridge 384. Distal retaining ridge 384 may be disposed interiorto housing 170. Distal retaining ridge 384 may include a radially inwardthickened portion of wall 271. Distal retaining ridge 384 may bedisposed circumferentially surrounding a distal opening of housing 170.

A distal surface of the distal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper258 may abut distal retaining ridge 384. The distal rim of the distalbody-section of needle-penetrable stopper 258 may be compressed betweendistal retaining ridge 384 and the distal end-wall of container 150. Adistal surface of the rim of the distal body-section ofneedle-penetrable stopper 258 may be deformed by distal retaining ridge384. Container 150 may be maintained substantially immobile relative tohousing 170. Container 150 may be maintained substantially axiallyimmobile relative to housing 170 between the distal surface of guide 140and distal retaining ridge 384. A spacer (not shown) may be disposedbetween the distal surface of guide 140 and the proximal end-wall ofcontainer 150. The distal surface of guide 140 may abut the spacer. Theproximal end-wall of container 150 may abut the spacer.

Knob 102 may include knob distal surface 303. Housing wall 271 mayinclude proximal housing end-wall 377. Knob distal surface 303 may beseparated from proximal housing end-wall 377 by linear distance d1parallel to axis L (shown in FIG. 1 ). During the operational state, asrod 110 is distally displaced through guide 140, distance d1 maydecrease. At the end of the operational state, with completion ofmedicament delivery, distance d1 may be at a minimum. The minimum may begreater than zero.

The operational state of delivery device 100 may include pre-deliveryoperation of device 100 and medicament delivery operation of device 100.Pre-delivery operation of device 100 may be carried out with the distalend of delivery device 100 maintained substantially vertically upwardsabove knob 102. Performance of the delivery stroke may involve whateverorientation of delivery device 100 is most suitable for injection intothe patient.

Distal rod end 211 may abut rod-contacting face 251 of proximal plunger254. As rod 110 is distally displaced through guide 140 in theoperational state, distal rod end 211 may distally displacerod-contacting face 251 and, thereby, distally displace proximal plunger254. During distal displacement of proximal plunger 254, proximalplunger 254 may sealingly slide against interior wall 252. Distaldisplacement of proximal plunger 254 may distally displace medicamentcomponent 160 b.

Medicament component 160 b may be disposed between distal face 363 ofproximal plunger 254 and proximal face 365 of discharge plunger 256.Medicament component 160 b may substantially fill a space between distalface 363 and proximal face 365. Medicament component 160 b may include aliquid. The liquid may be substantially incompressible. Distaldisplacement of medicament component 160 b may distally displacedischarge plunger 256. During distal displacement of discharge plunger256, discharge plunger 256 may sealingly slide against interior wall252. Medicament component 160 b may be sealed within interior wall 252between distal face 363 and proximal face 365. Distal face 363 may bestructurally complementary to proximal face 365.

With boss 242 a (indicated in phantom lines) engaged with operationaltrack 120 and boss 242 b (shown in FIG. 2 ) engaged with secondoperational track 221, clockwise rotation of knob 102 may displace rod110 distally through guide 140. Distal displacement of rod 110 maydecrease distance d1. Delivery device 100 may be configured such that,even at an end of the operational state, with a maximum distaldisplacement of rod 110 through guide 140 and into container 150,distance d1 may be greater than zero.

Delivery device 100 may include bypass grooves 355. Bypass grooves 355may include one or more recesses extending radially outward intointerior wall 252. A radial distance of a floor of any of bypass grooves355 from axis L may be more than a cylindrical radius of interior wall252. Bypass grooves 355 may have extension with a component parallel toaxis L along an inner cylindrical surface of interior wall 252.Pre-operationally, proximal face 365 may be proximal to a proximal-mostaspect of the extension of bypass grooves 355 along the innercylindrical surface of interior wall 252.

In the pre-operational state, a proximal circumferential sealing surfaceof discharge plunger 256 adjacent to proximal face 365 may seal alongits entire perimeter against interior wall 252. In the operationalstate, as displacement of discharge plunger 256 progresses distally withfurther clockwise rotation of knob 102, discharge plunger 256 maysealingly slide distally against interior wall 252, maintaining a fullperimeter seal, until the proximal circumferential sealing surface ofdischarge plunger 256 passes the proximal-most aspect of the extensionof bypass grooves 355 along the inner cylindrical surface of interiorwall 252.

With the proximal circumferential sealing surface of discharge plunger256 distal to the proximal-most aspect of the extension of bypassgrooves 355 along the inner cylindrical surface of interior wall 252,the circumferential sealing surface of discharge plunger 256 maymaintain a seal along unrecessed sections of interior wall 252. Thecircumferential sealing surface of discharge plunger 256 may notmaintain a seal across a width of any one of bypass grooves 355.Component 160 b may be displaced distally via bypass grooves 355 into aspace between distal face 367 of discharge plunger 256 and proximal face357 of stopper 258, mixing with component 160 a. Component 160 b mayinclude a reconstituting solution. Component 160 a may include alyophilized product that would be progressively reconstituted as more ofcomponent 160 b is distally displaced by further clockwise rotation ofknob 102.

Discharge of pressure distal to distal face 367 may be effected by acannula in discharge needle 394 of needle hub 190. Needle 394 maypenetrate distal stopper 258. Distal stopper 258 may seal around anouter perimeter of needle 394. The cannula of needle 394 may be in fluidcommunication with the space between distal face 367 and proximal face357. The cannula of needle 394 may be in fluid communication with acannula of delivery needle 398. The cannula of needle 394 may be influid communication with in-line filter 396. Filter 396 may be in fluidcommunication with the cannula of delivery needle 398.

With the proximal circumferential sealing surface of discharge plunger256 distal to the proximal-most aspect of the extension of bypassgrooves 355 along the inner cylindrical surface of interior wall 252,further clockwise rotation of knob 102 may further distally displace rod110. The further distal displacement of rod 110 may further distallydisplace proximal plunger 254. The further distal displacement ofproximal plunger 254 may further distally displace component 160 b. Withfurther distally displaced component 160 b flowing distally along bypassgrooves 355 rather than being sealed proximally to the proximalcircumferential sealing surface of discharge plunger 256, dischargeplunger 256 may remain substantially immobile until abutted on proximalface 365 by distal face 363 of distally displaced proximal plunger 254.

With abutment of distal face 363 against proximal face 365,substantially none of component 160 b may remain proximal to proximalface 365, substantially all of component 160 b having been distallydisplaced along bypass grooves 355. With substantially all of component160 b displaced along bypass grooves 355, component 160 b and component160 a may be mixed into a mixture of component 160 a and component 160b. The mixture of component 160 a and component 160 b may be a completemixture. The mixture of component 160 a and component 160 b may becontained in the space between distal face 367 and proximal face 357.Distal face 367 may be separated from proximal face 357 by lineardistance d2 parallel to axis L.

Further clockwise rotation of knob 102 may reduce the linear distance d2by further distally displacing rod 110. The further distal displacementof rod 110 may further distally displace proximal plunger 254. Thefurther distal displacement of proximal plunger 254 may further distallydisplace discharge plunger 256, bringing distal face 367 closer toproximal face 357, reducing distance d2. Distal face 367 may bestructurally complementary to proximal face 357.

The further distal displacement of discharge plunger 256 may distallydisplace the mixture of component 160 a and component 160 b. With thefurther distal displacement of rod 110, circumferential sealing surfacesof discharge plunger 256 and of proximal plunger 254 may, sequentially,pass distally beyond a distal-most aspect of the extension of bypassgrooves 355 along the inner cylindrical surface of interior wall 252.Passing the distal-most aspect of the extension of bypass grooves 355along the inner cylindrical surface of interior wall 252,circumferential sealing surfaces of discharge plunger 256 and ofproximal plunger 254 may, sequentially, effect complete perimeter sealsagainst interior wall 252.

With the complete perimeter seal(s) against interior wall 252, furtherdistal displacement of rod 110 may distally displace the mixture ofcomponent 160 a and component 160 b, discharging the mixture ofcomponent 160 a and component 160 b out through, sequentially, needle394, filter 396 and needle 398.

Further clockwise rotation of knob 102 may bring boss 242 a, engagedwith operational track 120, into engagement with longitudinal tract 124(shown in FIG. 2 ) of track 120. The further clockwise rotation of knob102 may bring boss 242 b (shown in FIG. 2 ), engaged with secondoperational track 221, into engagement with longitudinal tract 225(indicated in phantom lines) of track 221. Engagement of the boss(es)with the longitudinal tract(s) may block further clockwise rotation ofknob 102.

With engagement of the boss(es) with the longitudinal tract(s), knob 102may be pushed distally along axis L to further distally displace rod110. Further displacement of rod 110 may constitute performance of thedelivery stroke. The further displacement of rod 110 may furtherdistally displace the mixture of component 160 a and component 160 b,discharging the mixture of component 160 a and component 160 b outthrough, sequentially, needle 394, filter 396 and needle 398.

Knob 102 may be pushed distally along axis L until boss 242 a abutsterminal surface 212 (shown in FIG. 2 ) and/or until boss 242 b abutsterminal surface 213 (indicated in phantom lines). Abutment of theboss(es) with the terminal surface(es) may block further distaldisplacement of rod 110 and may block further distal displacement of themixture of component 160 a and component 160 b. The abutment of theboss(es) with the terminal surface(es) may terminate the deliverystroke.

With the abutment of the boss(es) with the terminal surface(es), lineardistance d2 may be non-zero. With the abutment of the boss(es) with theterminal surface(es), a residuum of the mixture of component 160 a andcomponent 160 b may remain contained within interior wall 252 betweendistal face 367 and proximal face 357.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B show features of rod 110.

FIG. 4A shows pre-operational track 130 of rod 110 distally defined bydistal rod end 211 and proximally limited by pre-operational trigger214. Adjacent pre-operational trigger 214, operation-initiation trigger416 may be supported by operational track 120 at a distal end ofhelicoidal tract 122. Track 120 may support delivery-initiation trigger418 at a proximal end of helicoidal tract 122, adjacent a distal end oflongitudinal tract 124, which latter being proximally limited byterminal surface 212.

A proximal end of helicoidal tract 223 may be disposed distal andadjacent longitudinal tract 225 (shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3 ).Diametrically opposite delivery-initiation trigger 418, the proximal endof helicoidal tract 223 may support a second delivery-initiation trigger(not shown) adjacent a distal end of longitudinal tract 225.

FIG. 4B shows details of the view of rod 110 shown in FIG. 4A. Track 120may be defined by sidewall 427. Track 120 may be defined by runningsurface 428. Between delivery-initiation trigger 418 and terminalsurface 212, running surface 428 may include running surface 429. Inapproaching terminal surface 212, running surface 429 may beprogressively recessed into rod 110. A radial distance of runningsurface 429 from axis L (shown in FIG. 1 ) may decrease with increasingproximity, along longitudinal tract 124, of running surface 429 toterminal surface 212.

FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 show details of plunger rods that may be components ofconfigurations of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows plunger rod 510. Rod 510 may be a component of a mixingconfiguration. Rod 510 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of rod 110 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4A and 4B).Rod 510 may include terminal surface 512, longitudinal tract 524,delivery-initiation trigger 518, operational track 520,operation-initiation trigger 516, pre-operational trigger 514,pre-operational track 530 and distal rod end 511. Rod 510 may define alongitudinal rod axis (not shown).

Rod 510 may include running surface 529 of longitudinal tract 524. Aradial distance of running surface 529 from the longitudinal rod axismay remain constant along longitudinal tract 524. Track 520 may supportpriming-initiation trigger 517. Priming-initiation trigger 517 may belocated medially along track 520, proximal to operation-initiationtrigger 516 and distal to delivery-initiation trigger 518.

FIG. 6 shows plunger rod 610. Rod 610 may be a component of a non-mixingconfiguration. Rod 610 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of rod 110 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4A and 4B).Rod 610 may have none, some or all of the features and functions of rod510 (shown in FIG. 5 ). Rod 610 may include terminal surface 612,operational track 620, operation-initiation trigger 616, pre-operationaltrigger 614, pre-operational track 630 and distal rod end 611. Rod 610may define a longitudinal rod axis (not shown). Operational track 620may be a rotary-delivery track.

Rod 610 may include helicoidal tract 622. Track 620 may includedelivery-initiation trigger 618. Delivery-initiation trigger 618 may belocated medially along track 620, proximal to operation-initiationtrigger 616 and distal to terminal surface 612. The non-mixingconfiguration may feature pre-filling with a dischargeable form ofmedicament (not shown). In the non-mixing configuration, operation ofthe delivery device may begin with priming. Operation-initiation trigger616 may be a priming-initiation trigger.

Terminal surface 612 may be a proximal end of operational track 620.Operational track 620 may support terminal surface 612. Terminal surface612 may be a sidewall of operational track 620. Terminal surface 612 maybe an end-wall of operational track 620. Terminal surface 612 may be asidewall of helicoidal tract 622. Terminal surface 612 may be anend-wall of helicoidal tract 622.

Terminal surface 612 may be an end-wall of track 620 along helicoidaltract 622. A length along helicoidal tract 622 betweendelivery-initiation trigger 618 and terminal surface 612 may set theextent of the delivery stroke. The delivery stroke may be performed byrotation of rod 110 about the longitudinal axis.

FIG. 7 , FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 show details of medicament containers thatmay be components of configurations of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows medicament container 750. Container 750 may be a componentof a mixing configuration. Container 750 may have none, some or all ofthe features and functions of container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3). Container 750 may define a bore bound by interior wall 752.Needle-penetrable stopper 758 may seal a distal end of the bore. Thedistal end of the bore may include a distal portion of interior wall752. The distal portion of interior wall 752 may define a distal openingof container 750.

Container 750 may include proximal plunger 754, medicament component 760b, discharge plunger 756, bypass grooves 755 and medicament component760 a.

Container 750 may include rod-contacting face 751. Proximal plunger 754may include rod-contacting face 751. A proximal face of proximal plunger754 may include rod-contacting face 751. Discharge plunger 756 mayinclude proximal face 765.

Medicament component 760 b may include a liquid medicament componentformulation. Medicament component 760 b may be disposed between proximalface 765 and proximal plunger 754. Medicament component 760 b may besealed between proximal face 765 and proximal plunger 754. Medicamentcomponent 760 b may substantially fill a space between proximal face 765and a distal face of proximal plunger 754.

Medicament component 760 a may be disposed distal to discharge plunger756. Medicament component 760 a may be disposed between dischargeplunger 756 and needle-penetrable stopper 758. Medicament component 760a may be sealed between discharge plunger 756 and needle-penetrablestopper 758.

Displacement of proximal face 765 distally beyond a proximal-most extentof bypass grooves 755 may facilitate flow of medicament component 760 balong bypass grooves 755, bypassing discharge plunger 756, to mix withmedicament component 760 a.

Medicament component 760 a may include a solid medicament componentformulation. Medicament component 760 a may include a lyophilizedproduct. Medicament component 760 b may include a reconstitutingsolution. Medicament component 760 a may be reconstituted by mixing withmedicament component 760 b.

Needle-penetrable stopper 758 may seal the distal opening of container750 along interior wall 752. A proximal body-section ofneedle-penetrable stopper 758 may be inserted into container 750 throughthe distal opening of container 750. A cylindrical surface of theproximal body-section may seal against the distal portion of interiorwall 752. A distal circumferential portion of the cylindrical surfacemay seal along its entire perimeter against interior wall 752.

Needle-penetrable stopper 758 may seal the distal opening of container750 along a distal end-wall of container 750 surrounding the distalopening of container 750. Needle-penetrable stopper 758 may abut thedistal end-wall. A distal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 758may have a diameter substantially greater than a uniform diameter of thebore of container 750. A proximal surface of a rim of the distalbody-section may seal against the distal end-wall of container 750.

The cylindrical surface of the proximal body-section ofneedle-penetrable stopper 758 may define voids 759. Voids 759 may berecessed into the cylindrical surface. Voids 759 may have longitudinalextension along the cylindrical surface. Voids 759 may extend proximallyfrom the distal circumferential portion of the cylindrical surfacesealing against the distal end-wall of container 750. Voids 759 mayextend proximally to a proximal end of needle-penetrable stopper 758.

During a manufacturing step of the mixing configuration, container 750may be oriented with the distal opening vertically upwards above aproximal end of container 750. Needle-penetrable stopper 758 may bepartially inserted (not shown) into the distal end of container 750,leaving a gap between the distal end-wall of container 750 and theproximal surface of the rim of the distal body-section ofneedle-penetrable stopper 758. The gap may be configured to facilitategas exchange along voids 759 between an interior of container 750 and anexterior of container 750.

During the manufacturing step, container 750 may be within alyophilization chamber (not shown). A portion of the interior ofcontainer 750 distal to discharge plunger 756 may contain a liquidmedicament formulation (not shown) to be lyophilized to producecomponent 760 a. During lyophilization, gas may be exchanged along voids759 from the liquid medicament formulation in the interior of container750 to the exterior of container 750. The gas may be a lyophilizationbyproduct. The lyophilization byproduct may be vaporized solvent of theliquid medicament formulation. Lyophilization may continue until thelyophilized product remains in container 750. The lyophilized productmay be a caked desiccated medicament. With completion of lyophilization,medicament component 760 a may have been produced by lyophilization.With the completion of lyophilization, needle-penetrable stopper 758 maybe fully inserted into container 750, bringing the rim of the distalbody-section of needle-penetrable stopper 758 into abutment with thedistal end-wall of container 750.

FIG. 8 shows medicament container 850. Container 850 may be a componentof a mixing configuration. Container 850 may have none, some or all ofthe features and functions of container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3). Container 850 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of container 750 (shown in FIG. 7 ). Container 850 may definea bore bound by interior wall 852. Needle-penetrable stopper 858 mayseal a distal end of the bore. The distal end of the bore may include adistal portion of interior wall 852. The distal portion of interior wall852 may define a distal opening of container 850.

Container 850 may include proximal plunger 854, medicament component 860b, discharge plunger 856, bypass grooves 855 and medicament component860 a.

Container 850 may include rod-contacting face 851. Proximal plunger 854may include rod-contacting face 851. A proximal face of proximal plunger854 may include rod-contacting face 851. Discharge plunger 856 mayinclude proximal face 865.

Medicament component 860 b may include a liquid medicament componentformulation. Medicament component 860 b may be disposed between proximalface 865 and proximal plunger 854. Medicament component 860 b may besealed between proximal surface 865 and proximal plunger 854. Medicamentcomponent 860 b may substantially fill a space between proximal surface865 and a distal face of proximal plunger 854.

Medicament component 860 a may include a liquid medicament componentformulation. Medicament component 860 a may be disposed distal todischarge plunger 856. Medicament component 860 a may be disposedbetween discharge plunger 856 and needle-penetrable stopper 858.Medicament component 860 a may be sealed between discharge plunger 856and needle-penetrable stopper 858. Medicament component 860 a maysubstantially fill a space between proximal surface 857 ofneedle-penetrable stopper 858 and a distal face of discharge plunger856.

Displacement of proximal face 865 distally beyond a proximal-most extentof bypass grooves 855 may facilitate flow of medicament component 860 balong bypass grooves 855, bypassing discharge plunger 856, to mix withmedicament component 860 a.

Medicament component 860 a may include a first component of a binarydrug system. Medicament component 860 b may include a second componentof the binary drug system. In the pre-operational state, the first andsecond components of the binary drug system may be maintained apart fromeach other in container 850. During the operational state, the first andsecond components of the binary drug system may be mixed in container850 preparatory to delivery of the binary drug system to the patient.

Medicament component 860 a may include a medicament formulation of a pH,ionic strength and/or medical agent concentration better suited forstorage than for delivery to the patient. Medicament component 860 b mayinclude a solution, such as a buffering solution, which, when mixed withmedical component 860 a, yields a mixture of a pH, ionic strength and/ormedical agent concentration better suited for delivery to the patientthan for storage.

Needle-penetrable stopper 858 may seal the distal opening of container850 along interior wall 852. An exterior circumferential surface of aproximal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 858 may seal againstthe distal portion of interior wall 852. The cylindrical surface mayseal along its circumferential perimeter against interior wall 852.

Needle-penetrable stopper 858 may seal the distal opening of container850 along a distal end-wall of container 850 surrounding the distalopening of container 850. Needle-penetrable stopper 858 may abut thedistal end-wall. A distal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 858may have a diameter substantially greater than a uniform diameter of thebore of container 850. A proximal surface of a rim of the distalbody-section may seal against the distal end-wall of container 850.

FIG. 9 shows medicament container 950. Container 950 may be a componentof a non-mixing configuration. Container 950 may have none, some or allof the features and functions of container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and3 ). Container 950 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of container 750 (shown in FIG. 7 ). Container 950 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of container 850 (shownin FIG. 8 ). Container 950 may define a bore bound by interior wall 952.Needle-penetrable stopper 958 may seal a distal end of the bore. Thedistal end of the bore may include a distal portion of interior wall952. The distal portion of interior wall 952 may define a distal openingof container 950.

Container 950 may include discharge plunger 956 and medicament 960.

Container 950 may include rod-contacting face 951. Discharge plunger 956may include rod-contacting face 951. A proximal face of dischargeplunger 956 may include rod-contacting face 951.

Medicament 960 may include a liquid medicament formulation. Medicament960 may be disposed distal to discharge plunger 956. Medicament 960 maybe disposed between discharge plunger 956 and needle-penetrable stopper958. Medicament 960 may be sealed between discharge plunger 956 andneedle-penetrable stopper 958. Medicament 960 may substantially fill aspace between proximal face 957 of needle-penetrable stopper 958 and adistal face of discharge plunger 956.

Needle-penetrable stopper 958 may seal the distal opening of container950 along interior wall 952. An exterior circumferential surface of aproximal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 958 may seal againstthe distal portion of interior wall 952. The cylindrical surface mayseal along its circumferential perimeter against interior wall 952.

Needle-penetrable stopper 958 may seal the distal opening of container950 along a distal end-wall of container 950 surrounding the distalopening of container 950. Needle-penetrable stopper 958 may abut thedistal end-wall. A distal body-section of needle-penetrable stopper 958may have a diameter substantially greater than a uniform diameter of thebore of container 950. A proximal surface of a rim of the distalbody-section may seal against the distal end-wall of container 950.

FIG. 10 shows a front view of a proximal face of guide 140. FIG. 10shows boss 242 a and boss 242 b disposed diametrically opposite, andextending toward, each other. FIG. 10 shows guide-tab 244 a andguide-tab 244 b disposed diametrically opposite, and extending awayfrom, each other. FIG. 10 shows seating collar section 246 a, seatingcollar section 246 b 1 and seating collar section 246 b 2.

Boss 242 a may be supported by arm 1041 a. Boss 242 b may be supportedby arm 1041 b. Arm 1041 a and arm 1041 b may be joined at hinge 1045.Hinge 1045 may be resilient. Arm 1041 a and arm 1041 b may define gap1048. Gap 1048 may extend between seating collar section 246 b 1 andseating collar section 246 b 2. Gap 1048 may be opposite hinge 1045. Arm1041 a may support boss 242 a apart from gap 1048. Arm 1041 a maysupport boss 242 a apart from hinge 1045. Arm 1041 b may support boss242 b apart from gap 1048. Arm 1041 b may support boss 242 b apart fromhinge 1045.

Guide 140 may be configured to deflect. Arms 1041 a and 1041 b may beconfigured to deflect away from each other about hinge 1045. A width ofgap 1048 may change during deflection of guide 140. Gap 1048 may widenduring the deflection of guide 140. Gap 1048 may narrow during thedeflection of guide 140.

FIG. 11 shows features of delivery device 100.

FIG. 11 shows that distal end 211 of rod 110 may be longitudinallyinserted through guide 140. With insertion of distal rod end 211 throughguide 140, boss 242 b (indicated in phantom lines) may engage rod 110 atpre-operational track 130 and/or boss 242 a may engage rod 110 at secondpre-operational track 131 (shown in FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C). Rod 110 mayinclude chamfers 1119. Chamfers 1119 may facilitate engagement of theboss(es) at the pre-operational track(s) upon insertion of rod 110through guide 140.

FIG. 11 shows that guide 140 may be inserted into housing 170, withdistal guide extension 1149 extending into an interior of housing wall271. Guide 140 may be inserted into housing 170 until seating surface276 abuts seating collar section 246 a and/or until seating surface 276abuts seating collar section 246 b 1 and/or until seating surface 276abuts seating collar section 246 b 2. Seating surface 276 abutting oneor more of the seating collar sections of guide 140 may substantiallyblock further insertion of guide 140 into housing 170. With seatingsurface 276 abutting collar section 246 a, seating collar section 246 b1 and collar section 246 b 2, guide 140 may be seated in housing 170.

With seating surface 276 abutting one or more of the seating collarsections of guide 140, guide-tab 244 a may be locked by guide-tab lock272 a supported by wall section 275 a of housing wall 271 and/orguide-tab 244 b may be locked by guide-tab lock 272 b (indicated inphantom lines) supported by wall section 275 b of housing wall 271. Theguide-tab lock(s) locking the guide-tab(s) may block guide 140 fromproximal movement along axis L (shown in FIG. 1 ).

With seating surface 276 abutting one or more of the seating collarsections of guide 140, seating collar section 246 a may be blocked fromrotational movement about axis L by guide-tab lock 272 a and guide-tablock 272 b. Seating collar section 246 b 2 may be blocked fromrotational movement about axis L by guide-tab lock 272 a. Seating collarsection 246 b 1 may be blocked from rotational movement about axis L byguide-tab lock 272 b.

Rod 110 may be inserted into guide 140 with the engagement of boss 242 bat pre-operational track 130 until boss 242 b interacts withpre-operational trigger 214. The interaction of boss 242 b withpre-operational trigger 214 may correspond to an end of the engagementof boss 242 b with pre-operational track 130. Rod 110 may be insertedinto guide 140 with the engagement of boss 242 a at secondpre-operational track 131 until boss 242 a interacts with secondpre-operational trigger 215 (shown in FIG. 2C). The interaction of boss242 a with second pre-operational trigger 215 may correspond to an endof the engagement of boss 242 a with second pre-operational track 131.In response to the interaction of the boss(es) with the pre-operationaltrigger(s), guide 140 may deflect, widening gap 1048, indicating the endof the engagement of the boss(es) with the pre-operational track(s).Further longitudinal insertion of rod 110 into guide 140, may positionboss 242 b proximal to pre-operational trigger 214 and/or may positionboss 242 a proximal to second pre-operational trigger 215.

Boss 242 b may be positioned proximal to pre-operational trigger 214against running surface 1126. Running surface 1126 may be disposedadjacent pre-operational trigger 214. Running surface 1126 may bedisposed between pre-operational trigger 214 and operation-initiationtrigger 416. The insertion of rod 110 positioning boss 242 b againstrunning surface 1126 may be the initial displacement.

The initial displacement may position boss 242 a against a secondrunning surface (not shown) disposed diametrically opposite runningsurface 1126. The second running surface may be disposed proximal tosecond pre-operational trigger 215. The second running surface may bedisposed adjacent second pre-operational trigger 215. The second runningsurface may be adjacent a distal portion of helicoidal tract 223 ofsecond operational track 221.

Adjacent second pre-operational trigger 215, second operational track221 may support a second operation-initiation trigger (not shown) at adistal end of helicoidal tract 223 of second operational track 221. Thesecond operation-initiation trigger may be disposed diametricallyopposite operation-initiation trigger 416. The initial displacement mayposition boss 242 a against the second running surface between secondpre-operational trigger 215 and the second operation-initiation trigger.

With rod 110 at the initial displacement, delivery device 100 may be inthe pre-operational state. With rod 110 at the initial displacement,delivery device 100 may be at the end of the pre-operational state. Withrod 110 at the initial displacement, delivery device 100 may have beenprepared for initiation of the operational state.

Running surface 1126 may be adjacent a proximal portion ofpre-operational track 130. Running surface 1126 may be adjacent a distalportion of helicoidal tract 122 of operational track 120. Rod 110 may besubstantially blocked, by boss 242 b being positioned proximal topre-operational trigger 214 and/or by boss 242 a being positionedproximal to second pre-operational trigger 215, from inadvertentproximal slippage of rod 110 out of guide 140. Rod 110 may besubstantially blocked, by boss 242 b being positioned betweenpre-operational trigger 214 and operation-initiation trigger 416, frominadvertent further distal displacement. Rod 110 may be substantiallyblocked, by boss 242 a being positioned between second pre-operationaltrigger 215 and the second operation-initiation trigger, frominadvertent further distal displacement. Further distal displacement ofrod 110 from the initial displacement may involve intentionalmanipulation on the part of the operator.

The further distal displacement of rod 110 may be effected by clockwiserotation of rod 110 about axis L. The clockwise rotation of rod 110about axis L may shift boss 242 b from being positioned against runningsurface 1126 to interaction with operation-initiation trigger 416. Theclockwise rotation of rod 110 about axis L may shift boss 242 a frombeing positioned against the second running surface to interaction withthe second operation-initiation trigger. In response to the interactionof the boss(es) with the operation-initiation trigger(s), guide 140 maydeflect, widening gap 1048, indicating the initiation of the operationalstate.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of guide 140 deflecting may beconcomitant of and/or attendant upon widening of gap 1048.

Gap 1048 may be aligned with slot 1179 between wall section 275 a andwall section 275 b. Wall section 275 a and wall section 275 b maydeflect in response to deflection of the guide, widening slot 1179.Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the wall sections deflecting maybe concomitant of and/or attendant upon widening of slot 1179.

Finger flange 180 may encompass wall section 275 a and wall section 275b. Finger flange 180 may define hole 1182. A diametrical slot across,and extending radially inward beyond, hole 1182 may be aligned with slot1179.

FIG. 12 shows a view of a distal face of guide 140, with guide 140rotated 180° about axis L (shown in FIG. 1 ) relative to the view shownin FIG. 11 . FIG. 12 shows that gap 1048 between seating collar section246 b 1 and seating collar section 246 b 2 may extend distally alongdistal guide extension 1149. Gap 1048 may widen, along its longitudinalextension, with deflection of guide 140. Widening of gap 1048 may beassociated with a narrowing of a gap in distal guide extension 1149disposed parallel to and diametrically opposite gap 1048, as guide 140deflects about hinge 1045.

FIG. 13 shows a view of a distal face of finger flange 180, with fingerflange 180 rotated 180° about axis L (shown in FIG. 1 ) relative to theview shown in FIG. 11 . FIG. 13 shows that the diametrical slot across,and extending radially inward beyond, hole 1182 may be an extension ofslot 1179. Slot 1378 in housing 170 may be aligned with slot 1179.Finger flange 180 may deflect in response to wall section 275 adeflecting in response to deflection of guide 140 (shown in FIG. 12 ).Acoustic and/or tactile indication of finger flange 180 deflecting maybe concomitant of and/or attendant upon widening of slot 1179. Theindication produced by finger flange 180 may amplify the indicationproduced by the wall section(s).

FIGS. 14-27 show details of plunger rod guides that may be components ofconfigurations of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of a proximal face of plunger rod guide 1440.Guide 1440 may have may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of guide 140 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 10, 11 and 12 ). Guide1440 may include boss 1442 a. Guide 1440 may include boss 1442 b. Boss1442 a and boss 1442 b may be disposed diametrically opposite each otherrelative to a center of guide 1440. Boss 1442 a and boss 1442 b mayextend toward each other.

Guide 1440 may include radial collar section 1443 a. Guide 1440 mayinclude radial collar section 1443 b. Radial collar section 1443 a andradial collar section 1443 b may be disposed diametrically opposite eachother relative to the center. Radial collar section 1443 a and radialcollar section 1443 b may extend away from each other.

Guide 1440 may include guide-tab 1444 a, guide-tab 1444 b, guide-tab1444 c and guide-tab 1444 d. Guide-tab 1444 a, guide-tab 1444 b,guide-tab 1444 c and guide-tab 1444 d may be disposed symmetricallyrelative to the center. Guide-tab 1444 a and guide-tab 1444 b may bedisposed diametrically opposite each other relative to the center.Guide-tab 1444 a and guide-tab 1444 b may extend away from each other.Guide-tab 1444 c and guide-tab 1444 d may be disposed diametricallyopposite each other relative to the center. Guide-tab 1444 c andguide-tab 1444 d may extend away from each other.

Guide 1440 may include seating collar section 1446 a, seating collarsection 1446 b 1 and seating collar section 1446 b 2.

Boss 1442 a may be supported by arm 1441 a. Boss 1442 b may be supportedby arm 1441 b. Arm 1441 a and arm 1441 b may be joined at hinge 1445.Hinge 1445 may be resilient. Arm 1441 a and arm 1441 b may define gap1448. Gap 1448 may extend between seating collar section 1446 b 1 andseating collar section 1446 b 2. Gap 1448 may be opposite hinge 1445.Arm 1441 a may support boss 1442 a apart from gap 1448. Arm 1041 a maysupport boss 1442 a apart from hinge 1445. Arm 1041 b may support boss1442 b apart from gap 1448. Arm 1441 b may support boss 1442 b apartfrom hinge 1445.

FIG. 15 shows features of illustrative medicament delivery device 1500.Delivery device 1500 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of delivery device 100 (shown in FIG. 11 ). Delivery device1500 may define longitudinal axis L1.

Delivery device 1500 may include plunger rod 1510. Rod 1510 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of rod 110 (shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4A, 4B and 11 ). Rod 1510 may have none, someor all of the features and functions of rod 510 (shown in FIG. 5 ). Rod1510 may have none, some or all of the features and functions of rod 610(shown in FIG. 6 ). Rod 1510 may be disposed coaxial with axis L1.

Delivery device 1500 may include guide 1440. Guide 1440 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L1. Axis L1 may pass through the center of guide 1440.Guide 1440 may include distal guide extension 1549.

Delivery device 1500 may include device housing 1570. Housing 1570 mayhave none, some or all of the features and functions of housing 170(shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 11 and 13 ). Housing 1570 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L1.

Delivery device 1500 may include a medicament container (not shown). Themedicament container of device 1500 may have none, some or all of thefeatures and functions of medicament container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2and 3 ). The medicament container of device 1500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 750 (shown inFIG. 7 ). The medicament container of device 1500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 850 (shown inFIG. 8 ). The medicament container of device 1500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 950 (shown inFIG. 9 ). The medicament container of device 1500 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L1.

Delivery device 1500 may include a needle hub (not shown). The needlehub of device 1500 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of needle hub 190 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 ). The needle hubof device 1500 may be disposed coaxial with axis L1.

Rod 1510 may include distal rod end 1511. Rod 1510 may include chamfers1519 proximal to distal rod end 1511. Rod 1510 may definepre-operational track 1530. Pre-operational track 1530 may extend alonga cylindrical surface of rod 1510. Pre-operational track 1530 maysupport pre-operational trigger 1514. Pre-operational trigger 1514 maybe supported at a proximal end of pre-operational track 1530.

Rod 1510 may define a second pre-operational track (not shown). Thesecond pre-operational track may extend along the cylindrical surface ofrod 1510 parallel to pre-operational track 1530. The secondpre-operational track may extend parallel to pre-operational track 1530over a full extent of pre-operational track 1530 along the cylindricalsurface of rod 1510. The second pre-operational track may be disposeddiametrically opposite pre-operational track 1530. The secondpre-operational track may support a second pre-operational trigger (notshown). The second pre-operational trigger may be supported at aproximal end of the second pre-operational track. The secondpre-operational trigger may be disposed diametrically oppositepre-operational trigger 1514. The second pre-operational trigger may bedisposed along rod 1510 at a distance from distal rod end 1511substantially equal to a distance of pre-operational trigger 1514 fromdistal rod end 1511.

Rod 1510 may define operational track 1520. Operational track 1520 mayextend along the cylindrical surface of rod 1510. Rod 1510 may definesecond operational track 1521. Operational track 1520 and secondoperational track 1521 may be disposed parallel to each other along thecylindrical surface.

Operational track 1520 may support operation-initiation trigger 1516.Operation-initiation trigger 1516 may be adjacent to pre-operationaltrigger 1514. Operational track 1520 may include helicoidal tract 1522.Operation-initiation trigger 1516 may be supported by operational track1520 at a distal end of helicoidal tract 1522.

Second operational track 1521 may support a second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown). The second operation-initiation trigger may beadjacent to the second pre-operational trigger. Second operational track1521 may include helicoidal tract 1523. The second operation-initiationtrigger may be supported by second operational track 1521 at a distalend of helicoidal tract 1523. The second operation-initiation triggermay be disposed diametrically opposite operation-initiation trigger1516.

Sidewall 1527 may be a sidewall of helicoidal tract 1522. Track 1520 maybe defined by sidewall 1527. Running surface 1528 may be a runningsurface of helicoidal tract 1522. Track 1520 may be defined by runningsurface 1528.

Distal end 1511 of rod 1510 may be longitudinally inserted through guide1440. Guide 1440 may define a passageway through which distal rod end1511 may be inserted.

Rod 1510 may be rounded at distal rod end 1511. Rod 1510 being roundedat distal rod end 1511 may facilitate insertion of distal rod end 1511through guide 1440. With insertion of distal rod end 1511 through guide1440, boss 1442 a (indicated in phantom lines) may engage rod 1510 atpre-operational track 1530. Boss 1442 a may extend radially inward intopre-operational track 1530. Boss 1442 b may engage rod 1510 at thesecond pre-operational track. Boss 1442 b may extend radially inwardinto the second pre-operational track. Chamfers 1519 may facilitateengagement of the bosse(s) at the pre-operational track(s) uponinsertion of rod 1510 through guide 1440.

Housing 1570 may include housing wall 1571. Housing wall 1571 mayinclude first wall section 1575 a. Wall section 1575 a may be arcuate incross-section transverse to axis L1. Housing wall 1571 may includesecond wall section 1575 b. Wall section 1575 b may be arcuate incross-section transverse to axis L1. Wall section 1575 a and wallsection 1575 b may be symmetrically disposed relative to each about axisL1.

Guide 1440 may be inserted into housing 1570, with distal guideextension 1549 extending into an interior of housing wall 1571. Guide1440 may be disposed in housing 1570 between wall section 1575 a andwall section 1575 b.

Housing wall 1571 may support finger flange 1580. Finger flange 1580 mayencompass wall section 1575 a and wall section 1575 b.

Guide 1440 may be inserted into housing 1570 until seating surface 1576abuts seating collar section 1446 a and/or until seating surface 1576abuts seating collar section 1446 b 1 and/or until seating surface 1576abuts seating collar section 1446 b 2. A first space between wallsection 1575 a and wall section 1575 b may accommodate seating collarsection 1446 b 1 and seating collar section 1446 b 2. A second spacebetween wall section 1575 a and wall section 1575 b may accommodateseating collar section 1446 a. The first and second spaces may bedisposed diametrically opposite each other.

Seating surface 1576 abutting one or more of the seating collar sectionsof guide 1440 may substantially block further insertion of guide 1440into housing 1570. With seating surface 1576 abutting collar section1446 a, seating collar section 1446 b 1 and collar section 1446 b 2,guide 1440 may be seated in housing 1570.

With seating surface 1576 abutting one or more of the seating collarsections of guide 1440, guide-tab 1444 a may be locked by guide-tab lock1572 a supported by wall section 1575 a and/or guide-tab 1444 b may belocked by guide-tab lock 1572 b supported by wall section 1575 b and/orguide-tab 1444 d may be locked by guide-tab lock 1572 d supported bywall section 1575 b. Guide-tab 1444 c may be locked by another guide-tablock (not shown) supported by wall section 1575 a and disposeddiametrically opposite guide-tab lock 1572 d.

Each guide-tab lock of housing 1570 may have a proximal surfacesubstantially transverse to axis L1. The proximal surface of eachguide-tab lock of housing 1570 may have a radially inner edge facingaxis L1. Each guide-tab lock of housing 1570 may have a contouredsurface facing axis L1. A radial distance of the contoured surface ofeach guide-tab lock from axis L1 may increase distally along thecontoured surface toward seating surface 1576 from the radially inneredge of the proximal surface of the guide-tab lock.

Each guide-tab of guide 1440 may have a surface contoured substantiallycomplementary to the surface of any of the guide-tab locks of housing1570. With seating surface 1576 abutting one or more of the seatingcollar sections of guide 1440, each guide-tab lock of housing 1570 maymaintain some, most or all of the contoured surface of the guide-tab ofguide 1440 that it locks distal to the proximal surface of the guide-tablock of housing 1570. Each guide-tab lock of housing 1570 may block theguide-tab of guide 1440 that it locks from proximal movement along axisL1. The guide-tab lock(s) of housing 1570 locking the guide-tab(s) ofguide 1440 may block guide 1440 from proximal movement along axis L1.

Wall section 1575 b may include retaining ridge 1574 b disposed along aproximal portion of an interior of wall section 1575 b. Wall section1575 a may include retaining ridge 1574 a (indicated in phantom lines)disposed along a proximal portion of an interior of wall section 1575 a.Retaining ridge 1574 a may be disposed symmetrical to, and diametricallyopposite, retaining ridge 1574 b relative to axis L1.

Insertion of guide 1440 into housing 1570 may be carried out as amanufacturing step of device 1500. The insertion of guide 1440 intohousing 1570 may begin with distal longitudinal movement of distal guideextension 1549 between retaining ridge 1574 a and retaining ridge 1574b. Further distal longitudinal movement of guide 1440 into housing 1570may bring a distal circumferential edge of radial collar section 1443 ainto contact with a proximal circumferential aspect of retaining ridge1574 a and/or may bring a distal circumferential edge of radial collarsection 1443 b into contact with a proximal circumferential aspect ofretaining ridge 1574 b. With continuing longitudinal insertion of guide1440 into 1570, interference of each radial collar section with thecontacted retaining ridge may force apart wall sections 1575 a and 1575b, proximal aspects of the wall sections deflecting radially outwardfrom each other more than distal aspects of the wall sections.Deflection of the wall sections radially outward from each other mayallow the radial collar sections to pass distally between the retainingridges. Deflection of the wall sections radially outward from each othermay allow a distal external circumferential edge of each of theguide-tabs of guide 1440 to distally pass the radially inner edge of theproximal surface of the corresponding guide-tab lock of housing 1570.Further insertion of guide 1440 into housing 1570 may dispose a proximalcircumferential edge of each radial collar section distal to a distalcircumferential aspect of the contacted retaining ridge and/or maydispose some, most or all of the contoured surface of each guide-tabdistal to the radially inner edge of the proximal surface of thecorresponding guide-tab lock and/or may bring distal aspects of seatingcollar section 1446 a, 1446 b 1 and 1446 b 2 into abutment with seatingsurface 1576.

With seating surface 1576 abutting one or more of the seating collarsections of guide 1440, an exterior circumferential surface of radialcollar section 1443 b may be disposed along an interior surface of wallsection 1575 b distal to the distal circumferential aspect of retainingridge 1574 b. Radial collar section 1443 b may be blocked from proximalmovement along axis L1 by retaining ridge 1574 b. Radial collar section1443 b may be blocked from rotational movement about axis L1 byguide-tab lock 1572 b and guide-tab lock 1572 d. An exteriorcircumferential surface of radial collar section 1443 a may be disposedalong an interior surface of wall section 1575 a distal to the distalcircumferential aspect of retaining ridge 1574 a. Radial collar section1443 a may be blocked from proximal movement along axis L1 by retainingridge 1574 a. Radial collar section 1443 a may be blocked fromrotational movement about axis L1 by guide-tab lock 1572 a and by theguide-tab lock supported by wall section 1575 a and disposeddiametrically opposite guide-tab lock 1572 d.

Radial collar section 1443 a and/or radial collar section 1443 b beingblocked from rotational movement about axis L1 may block guide 1440 fromrotational movement about axis L1.

Insertion of rod 1510 into guide 1440 may be carried out as amanufacturing step of device 1500. Rod 1510 may be inserted into guide1440 with the engagement of boss 1442 a at pre-operational track 1530until boss 1442 a interacts with pre-operational trigger 1514.Interaction of boss 1442 a with pre-operational trigger 1514 maycorrespond to an end of the engagement of boss 1442 a withpre-operational track 1530. Rod 1510 may be inserted into guide 1440with the engagement of boss 1442 b at the second pre-operational trackuntil boss 1442 b interacts with the second pre-operational trigger.Interaction of boss 1442 b with the second pre-operational trigger maycorrespond to an end of the engagement of boss 1442 b with the secondpre-operational track. In response to the interaction of the boss(es)with the pre-operational trigger(s), guide 1440 may deflect, wideninggap 1448, indicating the end of the engagement of the boss(es) with thepre-operational track(s).

Upon further longitudinal insertion of rod 1510 into guide 1440, boss1442 a may be positioned proximal to pre-operational trigger 1514,against running surface 1526 between pre-operational trigger 1514 andoperation-initiation trigger 1516. The insertion of rod 1510 positioningboss 1442 a against running surface 1526 may be the initialdisplacement.

The initial displacement may position boss 1442 b proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger. The initial displacement may position boss 1442b against a second running surface (not shown). The second runningsurface may be disposed, between the second pre-operational trigger andthe second operation-initiation trigger, diametrically opposite runningsurface 1526.

Rod 1510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1442 a being positionedproximal to pre-operational trigger 1514, from inadvertent proximalslippage of rod 1510 out of guide 1440. Rod 1510 may be substantiallyblocked, by boss 1442 b being positioned proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger, from inadvertent proximal slippage of rod 1510out of guide 1440. Rod 1510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1442 abeing positioned between pre-operational trigger 1514 andoperation-initiation trigger 1516, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Rod 1510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1442 bbeing positioned between the second pre-operational trigger and thesecond operation-initiation trigger, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Further distal displacement of rod 1510 from the initialdisplacement may involve intentional manipulation on the part of anoperator of delivery device 1500.

With rod 1510 at the initial displacement, delivery device 1500 may bein the pre-operational state. With rod 1510 at the initial displacement,delivery device 1500 may be at the end of the pre-operational state.With rod 1510 at the initial displacement, delivery device 1500 may havebeen prepared for initiation of the operational state. The initiation ofthe operational state may involve the further distal displacement of rod1510 from the initial displacement.

The further distal displacement of rod 1510 may be effected by clockwiserotation of rod 1510 about axis L1. The clockwise rotation of rod 1510about axis L1 may shift boss 1442 a from being positioned againstrunning surface 1526 to interaction with operation-initiation trigger1516. The clockwise rotation of rod 1510 about axis L1 may shift boss1442 b from being positioned against the second running surface tointeraction with the second operation-initiation trigger. In response tothe interaction of the boss(es) with the operation-initiationtrigger(s), guide 1440 may deflect, widening gap 1448. Acoustic and/ortactile indication of guide 1440 deflecting may be concomitant of and/orattendant upon widening of gap 1448.

Housing 1570 may define slot 1578. Slot 1578 may be an extension of thefirst space between wall section 1575 a and wall section 1575 b. Slot1578 may be aligned with gap 1448.

Wall section 1575 a and/or wall section 1575 b may deflect in responseto deflection of guide 1440, widening the first space between wallsection 1575 a and wall section 1575 b. Widening the first space betweenwall section 1575 a and wall section 1575 b may widen slot 1578. Slot1578 may widen more at a proximal end of slot 1578 adjacent fingerflange 1580 than at a distal end of slot 1578. Acoustic and/or tactileindication of the wall sections deflecting may be concomitant of and/orattendant upon widening of slot 1578.

Finger flange 1580 may define hole 1582. A diametrical slot across, andextending radially inward beyond, hole 1582 may be a transverseextension of slot 1578. Finger flange 1580 may deflect in response towall section 1575 a deflecting in response to deflection of guide 1440and/or in response to wall section 1575 b deflecting in response todeflection of guide 1440. Acoustic and/or tactile indication of fingerflange 1580 deflecting may be concomitant of and/or attendant upondeflection of the wall section(s). Acoustic and/or tactile indication offinger flange 1580 deflecting may be concomitant of and/or attendantupon widening of slot 1578.

FIG. 16 shows delivery device 1500 with guide 1440 seated in housing1570 between wall section 1575 a and wall section 1575 b. FIG. 16 showsdelivery device 1500 with rod 1510 inserted into guide 1440.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 1442 a (indicated inphantom lines) may engage rod 1510 at operational track 1520. Boss 1442a may extend radially into operational track 1520. Boss 1442 a mayengage with helicoidal tract 1522. Boss 1442 a may be disposed engagedwith helicoidal tract 1522 adjacent operation-initiation trigger 1516(shown in FIG. 15 ). Boss 1442 a may be disposed alongside sidewall 1527of helicoidal tract 1522. Boss 1442 a may be disposed against runningsurface 1528 of helicoidal tract 1522.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 1442 b (shown in FIG.15 ) may engage rod 1510 at second operational track 1521. Boss 1442 bmay extend radially into second operational track 1521. Boss 1442 b mayengage with helicoidal tract 1523. Boss 1442 b may be disposed engagedwith helicoidal tract 1523 adjacent the second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown).

Distal axial movement of guide 1440 relative to housing 1570 may beblocked by seating surface 1576 (shown in FIG. 15 ).

Proximal axial movement of guide 1440 relative to housing 1570 may beblocked by guide-tab lock 1572 a. Proximal axial movement of guide 1440relative to housing 1570 may be blocked by guide-tab lock 1572 b.Proximal axial movement of guide 1440 relative to housing 1570 may beblocked by guide-tab lock 1572 d. Proximal axial movement of guide 1440relative to housing 1570 may be blocked by the guide-tab lock (notshown) supported by wall section 1575 a and disposed diametricallyopposite guide-tab lock 1572 d.

Proximal axial movement of guide 1440 relative to housing 1570 may beblocked by retaining ridge 1574 b. Proximal axial movement of guide 1440relative to housing 1570 may be blocked by retaining ridge 1574 a (shownin FIG. 15 ).

Rotational movement of guide 1440 relative to housing 1570 may beblocked by the guide-tab locks of housing 1570. Radial collar section1443 b may be blocked from rotational movement relative to housing 1570by guide-tab lock 1572 d and guide-tab lock 1572 b. Radial collarsection 1443 a may be blocked from rotational movement relative tohousing 1570 by guide-tab lock 1572 a and by the guide-tab locksupported by wall section 1575 a and disposed diametrically oppositeguide-tab lock 1572 d.

Subsequent to the initiation of the operational state, further distaldisplacement of rod 1510 relative to housing 1570 may be effected byclockwise rotation of rod 1510 about axis L1 (shown in FIG. 15 ).Helicoidal tract 1522 of operational track 1520 may supportpriming-initiation trigger 1617. Helicoidal tract 1523 of secondoperational track 1521 may support a second priming-initiation trigger(not shown) disposed diametrically opposite priming-initiation trigger1617. The clockwise rotation of rod 1510 about axis L1 may shift boss1442 a from being disposed adjacent to operation-initiation trigger 1516to interaction with priming-initiation trigger 1617. The clockwiserotation of rod 1510 about axis L1 may shift boss 1442 b from beingdisposed adjacent to the second operation-initiation trigger tointeraction with the second priming-initiation trigger.

In response to the interaction of the boss(es) with thepriming-initiation trigger(s), seating collar section 1446 b 1 andseating collar section 1446 b 2 may deflect away from each other abouthinge 1445, widening gap 1448. In response to the seating collarsections deflecting, wall sections 1575 a and 1575 b may deflectoutward. In response to wall sections 1575 a and 1575 b deflecting, slot1578 may widen, with more widening at a proximal end (not shown) of slot1578 adjacent finger flange 1580 than at a distal end of slot 1578. Adiametrical slot across, and extending radially inward beyond, hole 1582of finger flange 1580 may be a transverse extension of slot 1578. Inresponse to wall sections 1575 a and 1575 b deflecting, finger flange1580 may deflect.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the boss(es) interacting with thepriming-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/or attendantupon widening of gap 1448. Acoustic and/or tactile indication of theboss(es) interacting with the priming-initiation trigger(s) may beconcomitant of and/or attendant upon deflection of seating collarsection 1446 b 1 and seating collar section 1446 b 2 about hinge 1445.Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the boss(es) interacting with thepriming-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/or attendantupon deflection of wall sections 1575 a and 1575 b. Acoustic and/ortactile indication of the boss(es) interacting with thepriming-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/or attendantupon widening of slot 1578. Acoustic and/or tactile indication of theboss(es) interacting with the priming-initiation trigger(s) may beconcomitant of and/or attendant upon deflection of finger flange 1580.

Some of the acoustic and/or tactile indications may amplify others ofthe acoustic and/or tactile indications for the operator. For example,the operator may feel the deflection of wall sections 1575 a and 1575 bmore readily than the operator may feel the deflection of collar section1446 b 1 and seating collar section 1446 b 2 about hinge 1445.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the boss(es) interacting with thepriming-initiation trigger(s) may provide a signal to the operator toproceed to priming of device 1500.

FIG. 17 shows a front view of a proximal face of finger flange 1780.Finger flange 1780 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of finger flange 180 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 11 and 13 ). Fingerflange 1780 may have none, some or all of the features and functions offinger flange 1580 (shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 ). Finger flange 1780 maydefine hole 1782. Finger flange 1780 may define a second hole. Thesecond hole of finger flange 1780 may be symmetrically disposed to hole1782 relative to a center of finger flange 1780. Finger flange 1780 maydefine bay 1785. Bay 1785 may be concentric with finger flange 1780.

FIG. 17 shows a front view of a proximal face of plunger rod guide 1740.Guide 1740 may have none, some or all of the features and functions ofguide 140 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 10, 11 and 12 ). Guide 1740 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of guide 1440 (shown inFIGS. 14, 15 and 16 ).

Guide 1740 may include boss 1742 a. Boss 1742 a may be supported by arm1741 a. Guide 1740 may include boss 1742 b. Boss 1742 b may be supportedby arm 1741 b. Arm 1741 a and arm 1741 b may be symmetrically disposedto each other, relative to a center of guide 1740. Boss 1742 a and boss1742 b may be disposed diametrically opposite each other, relative tothe center of guide 1740. Boss 1742 a and boss 1742 b may extend towardeach other. Guide 1740 may be concentric with finger flange 1780. Guide1740 may be suspended across bay 1785.

FIG. 18 shows guide 1740 suspended across bay 1785. Guide 1740 mayinclude distal guide extension 1849 a. Distal guide extension 1849 a maybe arcuate. Distal guide extension 1849 a may be associated with arm1741 a. Guide 1740 may include distal guide extension 1849 b. Distalguide extension 1849 b may be arcuate. Distal guide extension 1849 b maybe associated with arm 1741 b.

Arm 1741 a may be suspended across bay 1785. Support member 1886 a maysuspend arm 1741 a across bay 1785. Support member 1886 c may suspendarm 1741 a across bay 1785.

Arm 1741 a may be supported adjacent a first end of arm 1741 a bysupport member 1886 a. Support member 1886 a may support arm 1741 aadjacent a first end of support member 1886 a. A second end of supportmember 1886 a may be disposed adjacent hole 1782. Arm 1741 a may besupported adjacent a second end of arm 1741 a by support member 1886 c.Support member 1886 c may support arm 1741 a adjacent a first end ofsupport member 1886 c. A second end of support member 1886 c may bedisposed adjacent the second hole of finger flange 1780.

Arm 1741 b may be suspended across bay 1785. Support member 1886 b maysuspend arm 1741 b across bay 1785. Support member 1886 d may suspendarm 1741 b across bay 1785.

Arm 1741 b may be supported adjacent a first end of arm 1741 b bysupport member 1886 b. Support 1886 b member may support arm 1741 badjacent a first end of support member 1886 b. A second end of supportmember 1886 b may be disposed adjacent hole 1782. Arm 1741 b may besupported adjacent a second end of arm 1741 b by support member 1886 d.Support member 1886 d may support arm 1741 b adjacent a first end ofsupport member 1886 d. A second end of support member 1886 d may bedisposed adjacent the second hole of finger flange 1780.

Support member 1886 a may be disposed proximal to distal guide extension1849 a. Support member 1886 c may be disposed proximal to distal guideextension 1849 a. Support member 1886 a and support member 1886 c may bedisposed collinearly.

Support member 1886 b may be disposed proximal to distal guide extension1849 b. Support member 1886 d may be disposed proximal to distal guideextension 1849 b. Support member 1886 b and support member 1886 d may bedisposed collinearly.

Support member 1886 a and support member 1886 b may be disposed parallelto each other. Support member 1886 c and support member 1886 d may bedisposed parallel to each other.

Arm 1741 a may support boss 1742 a apart from the first end of arm 1741a. Arm 1741 a may support boss 1742 a apart from the second end of arm1741 a.

Arm 1741 b may support boss 1742 b apart from the first end of arm 1741b. Arm 1741 b may support boss 1742 b apart from the second end of arm1741 b.

FIG. 19 shows guide 1740 suspended across bay 1785 in a cross-sectionalview taken along lines 19-19 shown in FIG. 17 (with finger flange 1780in an orientation similar to that of finger flange 1780 as viewed inFIG. 18 ). Finger flange 1780 may include annular border 1981. Border1981 may define hole 1782.

Boss 1742 a is shown supported by arm 1741 a, the latter supported,adjacent the first end of arm 1741 a, by support member 1886 a. Alateral side of support member 1886 a may be continuous, on the firstend of support 1886 a, with arm 1741 a. The lateral side of supportmember 1886 a may be continuous, on the second end of support member1886 a, with border 1981.

Arm 1741 a is shown supported, adjacent the second end of arm 1741 a, bysupport member 1886 c. A lateral side of support member 1886 c may becontinuous, on the first end of support member 1886 a, with arm 1741 a.The lateral side of support member 1886 c may be continuous, on thesecond end of support member 1886 c, with an annular border defining thesecond hole of finger flange 1780.

FIG. 20 shows guide 1740 suspended across bay 1785 in a cross-sectionalview taken along lines 20-20 shown in FIG. 18 (with finger flange 1780in an orientation similar to that of finger flange 1780 as viewed inFIG. 18 ).

Finger flange 1780 may include distal finger flange extension 2089 a.Distal finger flange extension 2089 a may be parallel to distal guideextension 1849 a. Distal finger flange extension 2089 a may be arcuate.Distal finger flange extension 2089 a may be concentric with distalguide extension 1849 a. Distal finger flange extension 2089 a may have agreater radius from the center of finger flange 1780 than distal guideextension 1849 a.

Finger flange 1780 may include distal finger flange extension 2089 b.Distal finger flange extension 2089 b may be parallel to distal guideextension 1849 b. Distal finger flange extension 2089 b may be arcuate.Distal finger flange extension 2089 b may be concentric with distalguide extension 1849 b. Distal finger flange extension 2089 b may have agreater radius from the center of finger flange 1780 than distal guideextension 1849 b.

Deflection of arm 1741 a outward from the center of finger flange 1780may be accommodated by bay 1785. Deflection of arm 1741 a outward fromthe center of finger flange 1780 may be accommodated by a gap between anexterior wall of distal guide extension 1849 a and an interior wall ofdistal finger flange extension 2089 a. The gap between the exterior wallof distal guide extension 1849 a and the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 a may be a portion of bay 1785. Deflection of arm1741 a outward from the center of finger flange 1780 may be larger alonga radius passing through boss 1742 a than along other radial lines fromthe center of finger flange 1780. Outward deflection of arm 1741 a alonga radial line passing through the first end of arm 1741 a may beconstrained by support member 1886 a. Support member 1886 a may deformin response to outward deflection of arm 1741 a. Support member 1886 amay deflect in response to outward deflection of arm 1741 a. Annularborder 1981 may deform in response to deformation of support member 1886a. Annular border 1981 may deform in response to deflection of supportmember 1886 a.

Deflection of arm 1741 b outward from the center of finger flange 1780may be accommodated by bay 1785. Deflection of arm 1741 a outward fromthe center of finger flange 1780 may be accommodated by a gap between anexterior wall of distal guide extension 1849 b and an interior wall ofdistal finger flange extension 2089 b. The gap between the exterior wallof distal guide extension 1849 b and the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 b may be a portion of bay 1785. Deflection of arm1741 b outward from the center of finger flange 1780 may be larger alonga radius passing through boss 1742 b than along other radial lines fromthe center of finger flange 1780. Outward deflection of arm 1741 b alonga radial line passing through the first end of arm 1741 b may beconstrained by support member 1886 b. Support member 1886 b may deformin response to outward deflection of arm 1741 b. Support member 1886 bmay deflect in response to outward deflection of arm 1741 b. Annularborder 1981 may deform in response to deformation of support member 1886b. Annular border 1981 may deform in response to deflection of supportmember 1886 b.

FIG. 21 shows a view of a distal face of finger flange 1780. FIG. 21shows a view of a distal face of guide 1740, guide 1740 suspended acrossbay 1785. FIG. 21 shows guide 1740 concentric with finger flange 1780,with distal guide extension 1849 a concentric with distal finger flangeextension 2089 a and distal guide extension 1849 b concentric withdistal finger flange extension 2089 b.

Finger flange 1780 may include finger flange-anchoring elements 2183.Finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 may be disposed about an exteriorwall of distal finger flange extension 2089 a. Finger flange-anchoringelements 2183 may be disposed about an exterior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 b.

Finger flange 1780 may include distal surface 2188 a. Distal surface2188 a may be disposed transverse to the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 a. Distal surface 2188 a may be disposedtransverse to the exterior wall of distal finger flange extension 2089a.

Finger flange 1780 may include distal surface 2188 b. Distal surface2188 b may be disposed transverse to the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 b. Distal surface 2188 b may be disposedtransverse to the exterior wall of distal finger flange extension 2089a.

Support member 1886 a may be disposed proximal to distal surface 2188 a.A distal aspect of support member 1886 a may be disposed parallel todistal surface 2188 a. Support member 1886 c may be disposed proximal todistal surface 2188 a. A distal aspect of support member 1886 c may bedisposed parallel to distal surface 2188 a.

Support member 1886 b may be disposed proximal to distal surface 2188 b.A distal aspect of support member 1886 b may be disposed parallel todistal surface 2188 b. Support member 1886 d may be disposed proximal todistal surface 2188 b. A distal aspect of support member 1886 d may bedisposed parallel to distal surface 2188 b.

FIG. 22 shows features of illustrative medicament delivery device 2200.Delivery device 2200 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of delivery device 100 (shown in FIG. 11 ). Delivery device2200 may have none, some or all of the features and functions ofdelivery device 1500 (shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 ). Delivery device 2200may define longitudinal axis L2.

Delivery device 2200 may include plunger rod 2210. Rod 2210 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of rod 110 (shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4A, 4B and 11 ). Rod 2210 may have none, someor all of the features and functions of rod 510 (shown in FIG. 5 ). Rod2210 may have none, some or all of the features and functions of rod 610(shown in FIG. 6 ). Rod 2210 may have none, some or all of the featuresand functions of rod 1510 (shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 ). Rod 2210 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L2.

Delivery device 2200 may include finger flange 1780. Finger flange 1780may be disposed coaxial with axis L2. Axis L2 may pass through thecenter of finger flange 1780. Each of finger flange-anchoring elements2183 may be structurally equivalent to any other of fingerflange-anchoring elements 2183. Each of finger flange-anchoring elements2183 may be oriented relative to axis L2 equivalently to any other offinger flange-anchoring elements 2183. Finger flange-anchoring elements2183 may be regularly spaced about the exterior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 b. Finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 may beregularly spaced (shown in FIG. 21 ) about the exterior wall of distalfinger flange extension 2089 a.

Delivery device 2200 may include guide 1740. Guide 1440 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L2. Axis L2 may pass through the center of guide 1740.Delivery device 2200 may include support member 1886 a. Delivery device2200 may include support member 1886 b. Delivery device 2200 may includesupport member 1886 c. Delivery device 2200 may include support member1886 d. The support member(s) may support guide 1740 suspended acrossbay 1785. The support member(s) may block guide 1740 from rotationalmotion relative to finger flange 1780.

Delivery device 2200 may include device housing 2270. Housing 2270 mayhave none, some or all of the features and functions of housing 170(shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 11 and 13 ). Housing 2270 may have none, someor all of the features and functions of housing 1570 (shown in FIGS. 15and 16 ). Housing 2270 may be disposed coaxial with axis L2.

Delivery device 2200 may include a medicament container (not shown). Themedicament container of device 2200 may have none, some or all of thefeatures and functions of medicament container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2and 3 ). The medicament container of device 2200 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 750 (shown inFIG. 7 ). The medicament container of device 2200 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 850 (shown inFIG. 8 ). The medicament container of device 2200 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 950 (shown inFIG. 9 ). The medicament container of device 2200 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L2.

Delivery device 2200 may include a needle hub (not shown). The needlehub of device 2200 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of needle hub 190 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 ). The needle hubof device 2200 may be disposed coaxial with axis L2.

Rod 2210 may include distal rod end 2211. Rod 2210 may definepre-operational track 2230. Pre-operational track 2230 may extend alonga cylindrical surface of rod 2210. Pre-operational track 2230 maysupport pre-operational trigger 2214. Pre-operational trigger 2214 maybe supported at a proximal end of pre-operational track 2230.

Rod 2210 may define a second pre-operational track (not shown). Thesecond pre-operational track may extend along the cylindrical surface ofrod 2210 parallel to pre-operational track 2230. The secondpre-operational track may extend parallel to pre-operational track 2230over a full extent of pre-operational track 2230 along the cylindricalsurface of rod 2210. The second pre-operational track may be disposeddiametrically opposite pre-operational track 2230. The secondpre-operational track may support a second pre-operational trigger (notshown). The second pre-operational trigger may be supported at aproximal end of the second pre-operational track. The secondpre-operational trigger may be disposed diametrically oppositepre-operational trigger 2214. The second pre-operational trigger may bedisposed along rod 2210 at a distance from distal rod end 2211substantially equal to a distance of pre-operational trigger 2214 fromdistal rod end 2211.

Rod 2210 may define operational track 2220. Operational track 2220 mayextend along the cylindrical surface of rod 2210. Rod 2210 may definesecond operational track 2221. Operational track 2220 and secondoperational track 2221 may be disposed parallel to each other along thecylindrical surface.

Operational track 2220 may support operation-initiation trigger 2216.Operation-initiation trigger 2216 may be adjacent to pre-operationaltrigger 2214. Operational track 2220 may include helicoidal tract 2222.Operation-initiation trigger 2216 may be supported by operational track2220 at a distal end of helicoidal tract 2222.

Second operational track 2221 may support a second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown). The second operation-initiation trigger may beadjacent to the second pre-operational trigger. Second operational track2221 may include helicoidal tract 2223. The second operation-initiationtrigger may be supported by second operational track 2221 at a distalend of helicoidal tract 2223. The second operation-initiation triggermay be disposed diametrically opposite operation-initiation trigger2216.

Sidewall 2227 may be a sidewall of helicoidal tract 2222. Track 2220 maybe defined by sidewall 2227. Running surface 2228 may be a runningsurface of helicoidal tract 2222. Track 2220 may be defined by runningsurface 2228.

Distal end 2211 of rod 2210 may be longitudinally inserted through guide1740. Guide 1740 may define a passageway through which distal rod end2211 may be inserted.

Rod 2210 may be rounded at distal rod end 2111. Rod 2210 being roundedat distal rod end 2211 may facilitate insertion of distal rod end 2211through guide 1740. With insertion of distal rod end 2211 through guide1740, boss 1742 b may engage rod 2210 at pre-operational track 2230.Boss 1742 b may extend radially inward into pre-operational track 2230.Boss 1742 a may engage rod 2210 at the second pre-operational track.Boss 1742 a may extend radially inward into the second pre-operationaltrack.

Housing 2270 may include housing wall 2271. Housing wall 2271 mayinclude proximal housing end-wall 2277. Proximal housing end-wall 2277may border a proximal opening in housing 2270. The proximal opening inhousing 2270 may be disposed coaxial with axis L2. Distal to proximalhousing end-wall 2277, housing 2270 may include finger flange-anchoringaccepting elements 2273. Finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273may be structurally complementary to finger flange-anchoring elements2183. Each of finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 may bestructurally complementary to any of finger flange-anchoring elements2183.

Each of finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 may bestructurally equivalent to any other of finger flange-anchoringaccepting elements 2273. Each of finger flange-anchoring acceptingelements 2273 may be oriented relative to axis L2 equivalently to anyother of finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273. Fingerflange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 may be disposed about aninterior surface of housing wall 2271. Finger flange-anchoring acceptingelements 2273 may be regularly spaced about the interior surface ofhousing wall 2271. Regular spacing of finger flange-anchoring acceptingelements 2273 may correspond to regular spacing of fingerflange-anchoring elements 2183.

Finger flange 1780 may be inserted into the proximal opening of housing2270. Inserting finger flange 1780 into the proximal opening of housing2270 may bring one or more of finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 intocontact with one or more of finger flange-anchoring accepting elements2273. Inserting finger flange 1780 into the proximal opening of housing2270 may mate finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 with fingerflange-anchoring accepting elements 2273.

Mating finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 with fingerflange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 may dispose finger flange 1780coaxial with housing 2270. Disposing finger flange 1780 coaxial withhousing may dispose guide 1740 coaxial with housing 2270. Mating fingerflange-anchoring elements 2183 with finger flange-anchoring acceptingelements 2273 may affix finger flange 1780 to housing 2270.

Affixing finger flange 1780 to housing 2270 by mating fingerflange-anchoring elements 2183 with finger flange-anchoring acceptingelements 2273 may block finger flange 1780 from further insertion intohousing 2270. Affixing finger flange 1780 to housing 2270 by matingfinger flange-anchoring elements 2183 with finger flange-anchoringaccepting elements 2273 may block finger flange 1780 from axial movementalong axis L2. Blocking finger flange 1780 from axial movement alongaxis L2 may block guide 1740 from axial movement along axis L2. Affixingfinger flange 1780 to housing 2270 by mating finger flange-anchoringelements 2183 with finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 mayblock finger flange 1780 from rotational movement about axis L2.Blocking finger flange 1780 from rotational movement about axis L2 mayblock guide 1740 from rotational movement about axis L2.

Affixing finger flange 1780 to housing 2270 may be facilitated by aplurality of coaxial circumferential orientations of finger flange 1780relative to housing 2270 that may bring finger flange-anchoring elements2183 into mating-compatible contact with finger flange-anchoringaccepting elements 2273. The plurality of coaxial circumferentialorientations of finger flange 1780 relative to housing 2270 that maybring finger flange-anchoring elements 2183 into mating-compatiblecontact with finger flange-anchoring accepting elements 2273 may benumbered at a total number of finger flange-anchoring accepting elements2273. Affixing finger flange 1780 to housing 2270 may be carried out asa manufacturing step of device 2200.

Insertion of rod 2210 into guide 1740 may be carried out as amanufacturing step of device 2200.

Rod 2210 may be inserted into guide 1740 with the engagement of boss1742 b at pre-operational track 2230 until boss 1442 b interacts withpre-operational trigger 2214. Interaction of boss 1742 b withpre-operational trigger 2214 may correspond to an end of the engagementof boss 1742 b with pre-operational track 2230. In response tointeraction of boss 1742 b with pre-operational trigger 2214, arm 1741 bmay deflect radially outward, along the radius passing through boss 1742b, toward the interior wall of distal finger flange extension 2089 b.Deflection of arm 1741 b may indicate the end of the engagement of boss1742 b at pre-operational track 2230.

Rod 2210 may be inserted into guide 1740 with the engagement of boss1742 a at the second pre-operational track until boss 1742 a interactswith the second pre-operational trigger. Interaction of boss 1742 a withthe second pre-operational trigger may correspond to an end of theengagement of boss 1742 a with the second pre-operational track. Inresponse to interaction of boss 1742 a with the second pre-operationaltrigger, arm 1741 a may deflect radially outward, along the radiuspassing through boss 1742 a, toward the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 a. Deflection of arm 1741 a may indicate an end ofengagement of boss 1742 a at the second pre-operational track.

Upon further longitudinal insertion of rod 2210 into guide 1740, boss1742 b may be positioned proximal to pre-operational trigger 2214,against running surface 2226 between pre-operational trigger 2214 andoperation-initiation trigger 2216. The insertion of rod 2210 positioningboss 1742 b against running surface 2226 may be the initialdisplacement.

The initial displacement may position boss 1742 a proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger. The initial displacement may position boss 1742a against a second running surface (not shown). The second runningsurface may be disposed, between the second pre-operational trigger andthe second operation-initiation trigger, diametrically opposite runningsurface 2226.

Rod 2210 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1742 b being positionedproximal to pre-operational trigger 2214, from inadvertent proximalslippage of rod 2210 out of guide 1740. Rod 2210 may be substantiallyblocked, by boss 1742 a being positioned proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger, from inadvertent proximal slippage of rod 2210out of guide 1740. Rod 2210 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1742 bbeing positioned between pre-operational trigger 2214 andoperation-initiation trigger 2216, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Rod 2210 may be substantially blocked, by boss 1742 abeing positioned between the second pre-operational trigger and thesecond operation-initiation trigger, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Further distal displacement of rod 2210 from the initialdisplacement may involve intentional manipulation on the part of anoperator of delivery device 2200.

With rod 2210 at the initial displacement, delivery device 2200 may bein the pre-operational state. With rod 2210 at the initial displacement,delivery device 2200 may be at the end of the pre-operational state.With rod 2210 at the initial displacement, delivery device 2200 may havebeen prepared for initiation of the operational state. The initiation ofthe operational state may involve the further distal displacement of rod2210 from the initial displacement.

The further distal displacement of rod 2210 may be effected by clockwiserotation of rod 2210 about axis L2. The clockwise rotation of rod 2210about axis L2 may shift boss 1742 b from being positioned againstrunning surface 2226 to interaction with operation-initiation trigger2216. The clockwise rotation of rod 2210 about axis L2 may shift boss1742 a from being positioned against the second running surface tointeraction with the second operation-initiation trigger.

In response to the interaction of boss 1742 b with operation-initiationtrigger 2216, arm 1741 b may deflect radially outward, along the radiuspassing through boss 1742 b, toward the interior wall of distal fingerflange extension 2089 b. Arm 1741 b deflecting outward may deformsupport member 1886 b. Arm 1741 b deflecting outward may deform supportmember 1886 d. Deformation of support member 1886 b may deform annularborder 1981. Deformation of support member 1886 d may deform an annularborder of the second hole of finger flange 1780 disposed symmetrical tohole 1782 relative to the center of guide 1740.

In response to the interaction of boss 1742 a with the secondoperation-initiation trigger, arm 1741 a may deflect radially outward,along the radius passing through boss 1742 a, toward the interior wallof distal finger flange extension 2089 a. Arm 1741 a deflecting outwardmay deform support member 1886 a. Arm 1741 a deflecting outward maydeform support member 1886 c. Deformation of support member 1886 a maydeform annular border 1981. Deformation of support member 1886 c maydeform the annular border of the second hole.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the interaction of the boss(es)with the operation-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/orattendant upon deflection of arm 1741 a and/or of arm 1741 b.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the interaction of the boss(es)with the operation-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/orattendant upon deformation of the support member(s).

FIG. 23 shows delivery device 2200 with finger flange 1780 affixed,coaxial with axis L2, to housing 2270 and with guide 1740 suspended,coaxial with axis L2, across bay 1785. FIG. 23 shows delivery device2200 with rod 2210 inserted into guide 1740.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 1742 b may engage rod2210 at operational track 2220. Boss 1742 b may extend radially intooperational track 2220. Boss 1742 b may engage with helicoidal tract2222. Boss 1742 b may be disposed engaged with helicoidal tract 2222adjacent operation-initiation trigger 2216 (shown in FIG. 22 ). Boss1742 b may be disposed alongside sidewall 2227 of helicoidal tract 2222.Boss 1742 b may be disposed against running surface 2228 of helicoidaltract 2222.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 1742 a (shown in FIG.22 ) may engage rod 2210 at second operational track 2221. Boss 1742 amay extend radially into second operational track 2221. Boss 1742 a mayengage with helicoidal tract 2223. Boss 1742 a may be disposed engagedwith helicoidal tract 2223 adjacent the second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown).

Subsequent to the initiation of the operational state, further distaldisplacement of rod 2210 relative to housing 2270 may be effected byclockwise rotation of rod 2210 about axis L2. Helicoidal tract 2222 ofoperational track 2220 may support priming-initiation trigger 2317.Helicoidal tract 2223 of second operational track 2221 may support asecond priming-initiation trigger (not shown) disposed diametricallyopposite priming-initiation trigger 2317. The clockwise rotation of rod2210 about axis L2 may shift boss 1742 b from being disposed adjacent tooperation-initiation trigger 2216 to interaction with priming-initiationtrigger 2317. The clockwise rotation of rod 2210 about axis L2 may shiftboss 1742 a from being disposed adjacent to the secondoperation-initiation trigger to interaction with the secondpriming-initiation trigger.

In response to the interaction of boss 1742 b with priming-initiationtrigger 2317, arm 1741 b may deflect radially outward. Arm 1741 bdeflecting outward may deform support member 1886 b, with attendantdeformation of annular border 1981. Arm 1741 b deflecting outward maydeform support member 1886 d, with attendant deformation of the annularborder of the second hole symmetrically disposed to hole 1782.

In response to the interaction of boss 1742 a with the secondpriming-initiation trigger, arm 1741 a may deflect radially outward. Arm1741 a deflecting outward may deform support member 1886 a, withattendant deformation of annular border 1981. Arm 1741 a deflectingoutward may deform support member 1886 c, with attendant deformation ofthe annular border of the second hole.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the interaction of the boss(es)with the priming-initiation trigger(s) may be concomitant of and/orattendant upon deflection of arm 1741 a and/or of arm 1741 b.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of boss 1742 b interacting withpriming-initiation trigger 2317 and/or of boss 1742 a interacting withthe second priming-initiation trigger may provide a signal to theoperator to proceed to priming of device 2200.

FIG. 24 shows a front view of a proximal face of plunger rod guide 2440.Guide 2440 may have may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of guide 140 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 10, 11 and 12 ). Guide2440 may have may have none, some or all of the features and functionsof guide 1440 (shown in FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 ). Guide 2440 may have mayhave none, some or all of the features and functions of guide 1740(shown in FIGS. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 ). Guide 2440 may includeboss 2442 a. Guide 2440 may include boss 2442 b. Boss 2442 a and boss2442 b may be disposed diametrically opposite each other, relative to acenter of guide 2440. Boss 2442 a and boss 2442 b may extend toward eachother. Guide 2440 may be C-shaped. Guide 2440 may include a C-shapedclip.

Boss 2442 a may be supported by arm 2441 a. Boss 2442 a may beindirectly supported by arm 2441 a. Arm-supported spacer 2447 a may bedisposed between boss 2442 a and arm 2441 a. Arm-supported spacer 2447 amay be directly supported by arm 2441 a. Boss 2442 a may be directlysupported by arm-supported spacer 2447 a.

Boss 2442 b may be supported by arm 2441 b. Boss 2442 b may beindirectly supported by arm 2441 b. Arm-supported spacer 2447 b may bedisposed between boss 2442 b and arm 2441 b. Arm-supported spacer 2447 bmay be directly supported by arm 2441 b. Boss 2442 b may be directlysupported by arm-supported spacer 2447 b.

Arm-supported spacer 2447 a and arm-supported spacer 2447 b may bedisposed diametrically opposite each other, relative to the center.Arm-supported spacer 2447 a and arm-supported spacer 2447 b may extendtoward each other.

Arm 2441 a and arm 2441 b may be joined at hinge 2445. Hinge 2445 may beresilient. Arm 2441 a and arm 2441 b may define gap 2448. Gap 2448 mayextend between an end of arm 2441 a and an end of arm 2441 b. Gap 2448may be opposite hinge 2445. Arm 2441 a may support boss 2442 a apartfrom gap 2448. Arm 2441 a may support boss 2442 a apart from hinge 2445.Arm 2441 b may support boss 2442 b apart from gap 2448. Arm 2441 b maysupport boss 2442 b apart from hinge 2445. A width of gap 2448 maychange during a deflection of guide 2440. Gap 2448 may widen during thedeflection of guide 2440. Gap 2448 may narrow during the deflection ofguide 2440.

FIG. 25 shows features of illustrative medicament delivery device 2500.Delivery device 2500 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of delivery device 100 (shown in FIG. 11 ). Delivery device2500 may have none, some or all of the features and functions ofdelivery device 1500 (shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 ). Delivery device 2500may have none, some or all of the features and functions of deliverydevice 2200 (shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 ). Delivery device 2500 may definelongitudinal axis L3.

Delivery device 2500 may include plunger rod 2510. Rod 2510 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of rod 110 (shown inFIGS. 1, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4A, 4B and 11 ). Rod 2510 may have none, someor all of the features and functions of rod 510 (shown in FIG. 5 ). Rod2510 may have none, some or all of the features and functions of rod 610(shown in FIG. 6 ). Rod 2510 may have none, some or all of the featuresand functions of rod 1510 (shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 ). Rod 2510 may havenone, some or all of the features and functions of rod 2210 (shown inFIGS. 22 and 23 ). Rod 2510 may be disposed coaxial with axis L3.

Delivery device 2500 may include device housing 2570. Housing 2570 mayhave none, some or all of the features and functions of housing 170(shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 11 and 13 ). Housing 2570 may have none, someor all of the features and functions of housing 1570 (shown in FIGS. 15and 16 ). Housing 2570 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of housing 2270 (shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 ). Housing 2570 maybe disposed coaxial with axis L3.

Delivery device 2500 may include a medicament container (not shown). Themedicament container of device 2500 may have none, some or all of thefeatures and functions of medicament container 150 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2and 3 ). The medicament container of device 2500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 750 (shown inFIG. 7 ). The medicament container of device 2500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 850 (shown inFIG. 8 ). The medicament container of device 2500 may have none, some orall of the features and functions of medicament container 950 (shown inFIG. 9 ). The medicament container of device 2500 may be disposedcoaxial with axis L3.

Delivery device 2500 may include a needle hub (not shown). The needlehub of device 2500 may have none, some or all of the features andfunctions of needle hub 190 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 ). The needle hubof device 2500 may be disposed coaxial with axis L3.

Rod 2510 may include distal rod end 2511. Rod 2510 may definepre-operational track 2530. Pre-operational track 2530 may extend alonga cylindrical surface of rod 2510. Pre-operational track 2530 maysupport pre-operational trigger 2514. Pre-operational trigger 2514 maybe supported at a proximal end of pre-operational track 2530.

Rod 2510 may define a second pre-operational track (not shown). Thesecond pre-operational track may extend along the cylindrical surface ofrod 2510 parallel to pre-operational track 2530. The secondpre-operational track may extend parallel to pre-operational track 2530over a full extent of pre-operational track 2530 along the cylindricalsurface of rod 2510. The second pre-operational track may be disposeddiametrically opposite pre-operational track 2530. The secondpre-operational track may support a second pre-operational trigger (notshown). The second pre-operational trigger may be supported at aproximal end of the second pre-operational track. The secondpre-operational trigger may be disposed diametrically oppositepre-operational trigger 2514. The second pre-operational trigger may bedisposed along rod 2510 at a distance from distal rod end 2511substantially equal to a distance of pre-operational trigger 2514 fromdistal rod end 2511.

Rod 2510 may define operational track 2520. Operational track 2520 mayextend along the cylindrical surface of rod 2510. Rod 2510 may definesecond operational track 2521. Operational track 2520 and secondoperational track 2521 may be disposed parallel to each other along thecylindrical surface.

Operational track 2520 may support operation-initiation trigger 2516.Operation-initiation trigger 2516 may be adjacent to pre-operationaltrigger 2514. Operational track 2520 may include helicoidal tract 2522.Operation-initiation trigger 2516 may be supported by operational track2520 at a distal end of helicoidal tract 2522.

Second operational track 2521 may support a second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown). The second operation-initiation trigger may beadjacent to the second pre-operational trigger. Second operational track2521 may include helicoidal tract 2523. The second operation-initiationtrigger may be supported by second operational track 2521 at a distalend of helicoidal tract 2523. The second operation-initiation triggermay be disposed diametrically opposite operation-initiation trigger2516.

Sidewall 2527 may be a sidewall of helicoidal tract 2522. Track 2520 maybe defined by sidewall 2527. Running surface 2528 may be a runningsurface of helicoidal tract 2522. Track 2520 may be defined by runningsurface 2528.

Housing 2570 may include finger flange 2580. Housing 2570 may includehousing wall 2571. Finger flange 2580 may be supported by housing wall2571.

Housing 2570 may include frame 2532. Frame 2532 may be configured toaccommodate guide 2440. Frame 2532 may be configured for structuralcomplementarity of frame 2532 to guide 2440.

Frame 2532 may be continuous with housing wall 2571. Frame 2532 may beintegral to housing wall 2571. Frame 2532 may be disposed adjacent tofinger flange 2580. Frame 2532 may be disposed distal to finger flange2580. Frame 2532 may be disposed circumferentially about axis L3. Frame2532 may be disposed coaxial with axis L3. Frame 2532 may define opening2536 a. Frame 2532 may define opening 2536 b. Frame 2532 may defineopening 2536 c. Frame 2532 may define opening 2536 d. Structuralelements of frame 2532 may border opening 2536 a and/or opening 2536 band/or opening 2536 c and/or opening 2536 d. Opening 2536 a and/oropening 2536 b and/or opening 2536 c and/or opening 2536 d may bedisposed circumferentially about axis L3.

Frame 2532 may include distal circumferential ridge 2533.Circumferential ridge 2533 may be disposed circumferentially about axisL3. Circumferential ridge 2533 may be disposed coaxial with axis L3.Circumferential ridge 2533 may have an outer circumference transverse toaxis L3 greater than an outer circumference transverse to axis L3 ofhousing wall 2571 distal to circumferential ridge 2533. Circumferentialridge 2533 may be configured as a radial outward extension of housingwall 2571. Circumferential ridge 2533 may be configured as a radialprotuberance of housing wall 2571. An interior circumferential surfaceof circumferential ridge 2533 may be an interior surface of housing wall2571.

Frame 2532 may include circumferential ledge 2538. Circumferential ridge2533 may include circumferential ledge 2538. Circumferential ledge 2538may be disposed circumferentially about axis L3. Circumferential ledge2538 may be disposed coaxial with axis L3. A proximal surface ofcircumferential ledge 2538 may be disposed transverse to axis L3.

Frame 2532 may include longitudinal frame element 2534. Longitudinalframe element 2534 may be disposed parallel to axis L3. Longitudinalframe element 2534 may be supported, at a distal end of longitudinalframe element 2534, by circumferential ridge 2533. Longitudinal frameelement 2534 may be integral, at the distal end of longitudinal frameelement 2534, to circumferential ridge 2533. Longitudinal frame element2534 may be integral, at the distal end of longitudinal frame element2534, to circumferential ledge 2538. Longitudinal frame element 2534 maybe continuous, at the distal end of longitudinal frame element 2534,with a portion of housing wall 2571 distal to circumferential ledge2538. Longitudinal frame element 2534 may be integral, at the distal endof longitudinal frame element 2534, to the portion of housing wall 2571distal to circumferential ledge 2538. Longitudinal frame element 2534may be a portion of housing wall 2571. An interior surface oflongitudinal frame element 2534 may be an interior surface of housingwall 2571.

Longitudinal frame element 2534 may be supported, at a proximal end (notshown) of longitudinal frame element 2534, by finger flange 2580.Longitudinal frame element 2534 may be supported, at the proximal end oflongitudinal frame element 2534, by a proximal circumferential ridge(not shown) parallel to circumferential ridge 2533 and adjacent fingerflange 1580. The proximal circumferential ridge may have none, some orall of the features and functions of circumferential ridge 2533.

Frame 2532 may include circumferential frame element 2535 a. Frame 2532may include circumferential frame element 2535 b. Circumferential frameelement 2535 a and/or circumferential frame element 2535 b may bedisposed circumferentially about axis L3. Circumferential frame element2535 a and/or circumferential frame element 2535 b may be disposedcoaxial with axis L3. Circumferential frame element 2535 a and/orcircumferential frame element 2535 b may be supported by longitudinalframe element 2534. Circumferential frame element 2535 a and/orcircumferential frame element 2535 b may be integral to longitudinalframe element 2534. Circumferential frame element 2535 a and/orcircumferential frame element 2535 b may be supported, at an end awayfrom longitudinal frame element 2534, by housing wall 2571.Circumferential frame element 2535 a and/or circumferential frameelement 2535 b may be continuous, at the end away from longitudinalframe element 2534, with housing wall 2571. Circumferential frameelement 2535 a and/or circumferential frame element 2535 b may be aportion of housing wall 2571. An interior surface of circumferentialframe element 2535 a and/or circumferential frame element 2535 b may bean interior surface of housing wall 2571.

Circumferential frame element 2535 a and longitudinal frame element 2534may border opening 2536 a. Circumferential frame element 2535 a andlongitudinal frame element 2534 may border opening 2536 c.Circumferential frame element 2535 b and longitudinal frame element 2534may border opening 2536 b. Circumferential frame element 2535 b andlongitudinal frame element 2534 may border opening 2536 d.

Frame 2532 may include lateral longitudinal ledge 2537. Laterallongitudinal ledge 2537 may be disposed parallel to axis L3. Laterallongitudinal ledge 2537 may be disposed transverse to circumferentialledge 2538. Lateral longitudinal ledge 2537 may be disposed athwart theend away from longitudinal frame element 2534 of circumferential frameelement 2535 b. Frame 2532 may include a second lateral longitudinalledge (not shown). The second lateral longitudinal ledge may be disposedathwart the end away from longitudinal frame element 2534 ofcircumferential frame element 2535 a. Lateral longitudinal ledge 2537and/or the second lateral longitudinal ledge may extend along a radiustransverse to axis L3 beyond a radius transverse to axis L3 of an outersurface of circumferential frame element 2535 a and/or circumferentialframe element 2535 b.

Delivery device 2500 may include guide 2440. Guide 2440 may includedistal guide extension 2549. Guide 2440 may define central axis C. AxisC may pass through the center of guide 2440. Hinge 2445 may extendparallel to axis C along distal guide extension 2549. Gap 2448 (shown inFIG. 24 ) may have a longitudinal extension, parallel to axis C,opposite hinge 2445.

Guide 2440 may include distal arm-supported spacer 2547 c. An interiorwall of distal guide extension 2549 may support arm-supported spacer2547 c. The interior wall of distal guide extension 2549 supportingarm-supported spacer 2547 c may be an interior wall of a distalextension of arm 2441 a.

Guide 2440 may include distal arm-supported spacer 2547 d. An interiorwall of distal guide extension 2549 may support arm-supported spacer2547 d. The interior wall of distal guide extension 2549 supportingarm-supported spacer 2547 d may be an interior wall of a distalextension of arm 2441 b.

Arm-supported spacer 2547 c and arm-supported spacer 2547 d may bedisposed diametrically opposite each other. Arm-supported spacer 2447 cand arm-supported spacer 2447 d may extend toward each other.

Arm-supported spacer 2447 a and arm-supported spacer 2547 c may bedisposed parallel to each other. Between arm-supported spacer 2447 a andarm-supported spacer 2547 c, guide 2440 may define opening A transverseto axis C. Arm-supported spacer 2447 b and arm-supported spacer 2547 dmay be disposed parallel to each other. Between arm-supported spacer2447 b and arm-supported spacer 2547 d, guide 2440 may define opening Btransverse to axis C.

Guide 2440 may be affixed to housing 2570. Guide 2440 may be clippedonto housing 2570. Guide 2440 may be clipped onto frame 2532 in adirection transverse to axis L3. Guide 2440 may be clipped onto frame2532 such that axis C is disposed collinearly with axis L3.

Guide 2440 may be clipped onto housing 2570 such that guide 2440 isblocked from distal movement along axis L3 relative to housing 2570.Guide 2440 may be clipped onto housing 2570 such that guide 2440 isblocked from rotational movement about axis L3 relative to housing 2570.Clipping guide 2440 onto frame 2532 may be carried out as amanufacturing step of device 2500.

Clipping guide 2440 onto frame 2532 may proceed in several stages. Allthe stages may involve substantially maintaining an orientation of guide2440 relative to frame 2532. The orientation may include alignment ofaxis C parallel to axis L3. The orientation may include alignment of thelongitudinal extension of gap 2448 parallel to longitudinal frameelement 2534. The orientation may include alignment of a distal face ofguide 2440 coplanar with circumferential ledge 2538. The orientation mayinclude alignment of arm-supported spacer 2447 a with opening 2536 aand/or alignment of arm-supported spacer 2447 b with opening 2536 band/or alignment of arm-supported spacer 2547 c with opening 2536 cand/or alignment of arm-supported spacer 2547 d with opening 2536 d.

In a preparatory stage of clipping guide 2440 onto frame 2532 and at acompleted stage of clipping guide 2440 onto frame 2532, guide 2440 maybe undeflected. With guide 2440 undeflected, the width of gap 2448 mayhave a reference value. The reference value may be less than a diameterpassing through axis L3 between an outer surface of circumferentialframe element 2535 a and an outer surface of circumferential frameelement 2535 b. With guide 2440 deflected, the width of gap 2448 mayincrease from the reference value. In a transition stage of clippingguide 2440 onto frame 2532, between the preparatory stage and thecompleted stage, guide 2440 may be deflected.

The preparatory stage may involve decreasing distance between axis C andaxis L3 until guide 2440 is brought into initial contact with frame2532. The initial contact of guide 2440 with frame 2532 may bring theend of arm 2441 a into contact with circumferential frame element 2535 aand may bring the end of arm 2441 b into contact with circumferentialframe element 2535 b. The preparatory stage may bring a portion of thedistal face of guide 2440 against circumferential ledge 2538. Thepreparatory stage may bring a portion of each arm-supported spacer ofguide 2440 into the opening in frame 2532 with which the arm-supportedspacer is aligned.

The transition stage may involve further decreasing the distance betweenaxis C and axis L3, forcing a deflection of guide 2440 about hinge 2445,with the ends of arm 2441 a and arm 2441 b moving apart to accommodatethe outer surface of circumferential frame element 2535 a and the outersurface of circumferential frame element 2535 b. During the transitionstage, the width of gap 2448 may increase to at least a value of thediameter between the outer surface of circumferential frame element 2535a and the outer surface of circumferential frame element 2535 b. Duringthe transition stage, each arm-supported spacer of guide 2440 may movefurther into the opening in frame 2532 with which the arm-supportedspacer is aligned.

After the width of gap 2448 reaches the value of the diameter during thetransition stage, the width of gap 2448 may decrease toward thereference value with further decreasing of the distance between axis Cand axis L3. The distance between axis C and axis L3 may be decreaseduntil axis C and axis L3 are collinear at the completed stage. At thecompleted stage, the width of gap 2448 may be the reference value.

At the completed stage, guide 2440 may be disposed coaxial with housing2570. An interior surface of guide 2440 along hinge 2445 may be disposedagainst longitudinal frame element 2534. Other interior surfaces ofguide 2440 may be disposed against the outer surface of circumferentialframe element 2535 a or the outer surface of circumferential frameelement 2535 b. The distal face of guide 2440 may be disposed againstcircumferential ledge 2538. The proximal face of guide 2440 may bedisposed against a distal surface of finger flange 2580. A longitudinalextension of the end of arm 2441 b may be disposed against laterallongitudinal ledge 2537. A longitudinal extension of the end of arm 2441a may be disposed against the second lateral longitudinal ledge.

At the completed stage, with the width of gap 2448 being smaller thanthe diameter between the outer surface of circumferential frame element2535 a and the outer surface of circumferential frame element 2535 b,guide 2440 may be substantially blocked from inadvertent transverseslippage of guide 2440 from frame 2532. Stabilization of guide 2440maintaining guide 2440 coaxial with housing 2570 may be provided by thestructural complementarity of frame 2532 to guide 2440.

At the completed stage, the distal face of guide 2440 being disposedagainst circumferential ledge 2538 may block guide 2440 from distalaxial movement relative to housing 2570. The proximal face of guide 2440being disposed against the distal surface of finger flange 2580 mayblock guide 2440 from proximal axial movement relative to housing 2570.The longitudinal extension of the end of arm 2441 a and the longitudinalextension of the end of arm 2441 b being disposed against the laterallongitudinal ledges of frame 2532 may block guide 2440 from rotationalmovement relative to housing 2570.

At the completed stage, the arm-supported spacers may be disposedextending radially inward toward axis L3. Boss 2442 a and boss 2442 bmay be disposed extending radially inward toward axis L3. A distanceacross axis L3 between boss 2442 a and boss 244 b may be less than adiameter of the cylindrical surface of rod 2510.

At the completed stage, rod 2510 may be inserted into housing 2570 andthrough guide 2440. Insertion of rod 2510 into housing 2570 and throughguide 2440 may be carried out as a manufacturing step of device 2500.Distal end 2511 of rod 2510 may be longitudinally inserted into housing2570 and through guide 2440. Guide 2440 may define a passageway throughwhich distal rod end 2511 may be inserted.

With insertion of distal rod end 2511 through guide 2440, boss 2442 bmay engage rod 2510 at pre-operational track 2530. Boss 2442 b mayextend radially inward into pre-operational track 2530. Boss 2442 a mayengage rod 2510 at the second pre-operational track. Boss 2442 a mayextend radially inward into the second pre-operational track.

A radially inward facing surface of arm-supported spacer 2447 a and/orof arm-supported spacer 2447 b and/or of arm-supported spacer 2447 cand/or of arm-supported spacer 2447 d may be disposed alongside thecylindrical surface of rod 2510.

Rod 2510 may be inserted into guide 2440 with engagement of boss 2442 bat pre-operational track 2530 until boss 2442 b interacts withpre-operational trigger 2514. Interaction of boss 2442 b withpre-operational trigger 2514 may correspond to an end of the engagementof boss 2442 b with pre-operational track 2530. In response to theinteraction of boss 2442 b with pre-operational trigger 2514, guide 2440may deflect. In response to the interaction of boss 2442 b withpre-operational trigger 2514, arm 2441 b may deflect. Deflection of arm2441 b may indicate the end of the engagement of boss 2442 b atpre-operational track 2530.

Rod 2510 may be inserted into guide 2440 with engagement of boss 2442 aat the second pre-operational track until boss 2442 a interacts with thesecond pre-operational trigger. Interaction of boss 2442 a with thesecond pre-operational trigger may correspond to an end of theengagement of boss 2442 a with the second pre-operational track. Inresponse to the interaction of boss 2442 a with the secondpre-operational trigger, guide 2440 may deflect. In response to theinteraction of boss 2442 a with the second pre-operational trigger, arm2441 a may deflect. Deflection of arm 2441 a may indicate an end ofengagement of boss 2442 a at the second pre-operational track. Arm 2441a and arm 2441 b may deflect about hinge 2445.

Guide 2440 may deflect within openings 2536. Guide 2440 may deflectrelative to housing 2570. An exterior surface of guide 2440 may deflectrelative to housing 2570. An interior surface of guide 2440 may deflectrelative to housing 2570.

Upon further longitudinal insertion of rod 2510 into guide 2240, boss2242 b may be positioned proximal to pre-operational trigger 2514,against running surface 2526 between pre-operational trigger 2514 andoperation-initiation trigger 2516. The insertion of rod 2510 positioningboss 2242 b against running surface 2526 may be the initialdisplacement.

The initial displacement may position boss 2242 a proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger. The initial displacement may position boss 2242a against a second running surface (not shown). The second runningsurface may be disposed, between the second pre-operational trigger andthe second operation-initiation trigger, diametrically opposite runningsurface 2526.

Rod 2510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 2442 b being positionedproximal to pre-operational trigger 2514, from inadvertent proximalslippage of rod 2510 out of guide 2440. Rod 2510 may be substantiallyblocked, by boss 2442 a being positioned proximal to the secondpre-operational trigger, from inadvertent proximal slippage of rod 2510out of guide 2440. Rod 2510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 2442 bbeing positioned between pre-operational trigger 2514 andoperation-initiation trigger 2516, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Rod 2510 may be substantially blocked, by boss 2442 abeing positioned between the second pre-operational trigger and thesecond operation-initiation trigger, from inadvertent further distaldisplacement. Further distal displacement of rod 2510 from the initialdisplacement may involve intentional manipulation on the part of anoperator of delivery device 2500.

With rod 2510 at the initial displacement, delivery device 2500 may bein the pre-operational state. With rod 2510 at the initial displacement,delivery device 2500 may be at the end of the pre-operational state.With rod 2510 at the initial displacement, delivery device 2500 may havebeen prepared for initiation of the operational state. The initiation ofthe operational state may involve the further distal displacement of rod2510 from the initial displacement.

The further distal displacement of rod 2510 may be effected by clockwiserotation of rod 2510 about axis L3. The clockwise rotation of rod 2510about axis L3 may shift boss 2242 b from being positioned againstrunning surface 2526 to interaction with operation-initiation trigger2516. The clockwise rotation of rod 2510 about axis L3 may shift boss2242 a from being positioned against the second running surface tointeraction with the second operation-initiation trigger. In response tothe interaction of the boss(es) with the operation-initiationtrigger(s), guide 2440 may deflect, widening gap 2448.

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of guide 2440 deflecting may beconcomitant of and/or attendant upon widening of gap 2448. The operatormay feel the exterior surface of guide 2440 deflecting. The interiorsurface of guide 2440 returning to a non-deflected position against theexterior surface of frame 2532 may produce an audible sound.

FIG. 26 shows a view of the distal surface of finger flange 2580. Thedistal surface of finger flange 2580 may include distal surface 2688.Finger flange 2580 may support longitudinal frame element 2534. Distalsurface 2688 may support longitudinal frame element 2534. Distal surface2688 may abut the proximal end of longitudinal frame element 2534.Longitudinal frame element 2534 may be continuous with finger flange2580.

FIG. 26 shows a distal view of frame 2532. Frame 2532 may include aportion of distal surface 2688. The portion of distal surface 2688 mayborder opening 2536 a, also bordered by longitudinal frame element 2534and circumferential frame element 2535 a.

Distal surface 2688 may proximally limit frame 2532. Circumferentialridge 2533 may distally limit frame 2532. A portion of circumferentialridge 2533 may border opening 2536 c, also bordered by longitudinalframe element 2534 and circumferential frame element 2535 a.

FIG. 27 shows delivery device 2500 with guide 2440 clipped onto housing2570, with a view of circumferential frame element 2535 b throughopening B. Distal guide extension 2549 is shown distally limited bycircumferential ridge 2533. FIG. 27 shows delivery device 2500 with rod2510 inserted into housing 2570 and through guide 2440.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 2442 b (indicated inphantom lines) may engage rod 2510 at operational track 2520. Boss 2442b may extend radially into operational track 2520. Boss 2442 b mayengage with helicoidal tract 2522. Boss 2442 b may be disposed engagedwith helicoidal tract 2522 adjacent operation-initiation trigger 2516(shown in FIG. 25 ). Boss 2442 b may be disposed alongside sidewall 2527of helicoidal tract 2522. Boss 2442 b may be disposed against runningsurface 2528 of helicoidal tract 2522.

With the initiation of the operational state, boss 2442 a (shown in FIG.25 ) may engage rod 2510 at second operational track 2521. Boss 2442 amay extend radially into second operational track 2521. Boss 2442 a mayengage with helicoidal tract 2523. Boss 2442 a may be disposed engagedwith helicoidal tract 2523 adjacent the second operation-initiationtrigger (not shown).

Subsequent to the initiation of the operational state, further distaldisplacement of rod 2510 relative to housing 2570 and guide 2440 may beeffected by clockwise rotation of rod 2510 about axis L3. Helicoidaltract 2522 of operational track 2520 may support priming-initiationtrigger 2717. Helicoidal tract 2523 of second operational track 2521 maysupport a second priming-initiation trigger (not shown) disposeddiametrically opposite priming-initiation trigger 2717. The clockwiserotation of rod 2510 about axis L3 may shift boss 2442 b from beingdisposed adjacent to operation-initiation trigger 2516 to interactionwith priming-initiation trigger 2717. The clockwise rotation of rod 2510about axis L3 may shift boss 2442 a from being disposed adjacent to thesecond operation-initiation trigger to interaction with the secondpriming-initiation trigger.

In response to the interaction of the boss(es) with thepriming-initiation trigger(s), guide 2440 may deflect. In response tothe interaction of the boss(es) with the priming-initiation trigger(s),arm 2441 a and arm 2441 b may deflect outward about hinge 2445, withconcomitant and/or attendant acoustic and/or tactile indication of theboss(es) interacting with the priming-initiation trigger(s).

Acoustic and/or tactile indication of the boss(es) interacting with thepriming-initiation trigger(s) may provide a signal to the operator toproceed to priming of device 2500.

During operation of delivery device 2500, portions of the operator'sfingers may be disposed distal to finger flange 2580 alongside guide2440. Portions of the operator's fingers being disposed alongside guide2440 may provide the operator with tactile indication of deflection ofguide 2440.

Operation of delivery device 2500 may dispose portions of the operator'sfingers alongside hinge 2445. Portions of the operator's fingers beingdisposed alongside hinge 2445 may provide the operator with tactileindication of deflection of guide 2440.

Delivery device 2500 as shown in FIG. 27 features finger flange 2580with a long elliptical axis (not shown) of finger flange 2580 orientedsubstantially perpendicular to the direction of deflection of guide2440.

In some embodiments (not shown), the finger flange may have a longelliptical axis aligned with the direction of deflection of the guide.Portions of the operator's fingers may be positioned alongside a portionof the guide that is in line with the deflection of the guide. This mayprovide the operator with tactile indication of deflection of the guide.

FIG. 28 shows illustrative delivery device 2800. Delivery device 2800may have one or more features in common with one or more of devices 100(shown in FIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ) and 2500 (shown in FIG. 25). Delivery device 2800 may include knob 2802, finger flange 2880,medicament container 2850, medicament 2860, plunger rod 2810, plunger2856, pre-operational track 2830, guide 2840 and operational track 2820.

FIG. 29 shows that delivery device 2800 may include proximal rim 2953,bracket 2987, guide arm 2941A, guide arm 2941B, boss 2942A, boss 1942B,pre-operational protrusion 2914, helical tract 2922, longitudinal tract2924.

FIG. 29A shows distal surface 2988 of finger flange 2880.

FIG. 30 is a cross-section view taken along view lines 30-30 (shown inFIG. 28 ). Distance d2 between boss 2942 b and terminal surface 3012 oflongitudinal track 2924. In operation, rotation of knob 2802 decreasesd2.

FIG. 31A shows recess 3139 of bracket 2987. Bracket 2987 may besupported by distal surface 2988. Recess 3139 may receive rim 2953.

FIG. 31B shows rim 3953 having been received in recess 3139.

FIG. 32 shows support 3286 a supporting arm 2941 a. Support 3286 bsupports arm 2941 b. Supports 3286 a and 3286 b may be orientedvertically relative to finger flange 2880.

FIG. 33 shows finger flange 3380. Finger flange 3380 may include guide3340. Guide 3340 may include arm 3341 a, which may support boss 3342 a.Guide 3340 may include arm 3341 b, which may support boss 3342 b.Support 3286 a may support arm 3341 a. Support 3286 b may support arm3341 b.

FIG. 33A shows recess 3339 of bracket 3387, which may be supported bydistal surface 3388.

FIG. 34 is a partial [global] cross-sectional view taken along viewlines 34-34 (shown in FIG. 30 ). Supports 3386 a and support 3386 c maysupport part of guide 3440. Supports 3386 a and 3386 c may be orientedhorizontally relative to finger flange 3380. Distal extension 3489 ofguide 3440 may border recess 3339.

FIG. 35 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along view lines 35-35(shown in FIG. 33 ). Support 3386 c may support arm 3341 a. Support 3486d may support arm 3341 b. Distal extension 3489 may lie within the planeof finger flange 3380.

FIG. 36 shows finger flange 3680. Finger flange 3680 may include guide3640. Guide 3640 may include arm 3641 a. Arm 3641 a may support boss3642 a. Support 3686 a may support arm 3641 a. Support 3686 c maysupport arm 3641 a. Guide 3640 may include arm 3641 b. Arm 3641 b maysupport boss 3642 b. Support 3686 b may support arm 3641 b. Support 3686d may support arm 3641 b. Supports 3686 a and 3686 c may support arm3641 a within bay 3685. Supports 3686 b and 3686 d may support arm 3641b within bay 3685. In operation, guide 3640 may deflect radiallyoutwardly within bay 3685.

FIG. 37A shows finger flange components 3780 a and 3780 b in anunassembled state. Component 3780 a may support guide component 3740 a.Component 3780 b may support guide component 3740 b.

FIG. 37B shows components 3780 a and 3780 b in an assembled state.

FIG. 38A shows components 3780 a and 3780 b in the unassembled state.Distal surface 3888 a may support bracket component 3887 a. Distalsurface 3888 b may support bracket component 3887 b. Bracket component3887 a may define recess component 3839 a. Bracket component 3887 b maydefine recess component 3839 b.

FIG. 38B shows that recesses 3839 a and 3839 b form opening 3839 whenfinger flange components 3780 a and 3780 b are assembled.

FIG. 38C shows rim 3853 of container 3850 assembled with finger flangecomponents 3780 a and 3780 b. Finger flange components 3780 a and 3780 bmay be drawn together transversely to medicament container 3850 duringassembly.

FIG. 39 shows illustrative finger flange 3980. Finger flange 3980 maysupport guide 3940. Finger flange 3980 may include bracket 3987.

FIG. 40 shows recess 4039 of bracket 3987. Bracket 3987 may be supportedby distal surface 4088. Recess 4039 may receive rim 4053 of medicamentcontainer 4050.

FIG. 41 shows medicament container 4050 assembled with finger flangecomponents 3980. Medicament container 4050 may be insertedlongitudinally into bracket 3987 during assembly.

FIG. 42 shows partial cross-sectional view taken along lines 42-42(shown FIG. 41 ). FIG. 42 shows bracket 3987. Bracket 3987 may receivemedicament container 4050. Recess 4039 may retain rim 4053.

FIG. 43 shows illustrative plunger rod 4310. Rod 4310 may include firstoperational trigger 4316. Rod 4310 may show final stage delivery trigger4318.

FIG. 43A shows illustrative helical tract 4322 and longitudinal tract4324. Helical tract 4322 may support final stage delivery trigger 4318adjacent to longitudinal tract 4324. Longitudinal tract 4324 mayterminate proximally at terminal surface 4312.

FIG. 44 shows illustrative rod 4410. Rod 4410 may include firstoperational trigger 4416 and final stage delivery trigger 4418. Helicaltract 4422 may support final stage delivery trigger 4418 adjacent tolongitudinal tract 4444. Helical tract 4422 may have a longitudinal spanthat is longer than that of helical tract 4322 (shown in FIG. 43A). Alonger longitudinal span may provide for more expansive pre-deliveryfunctionality, such as priming, mixing or both priming and mixing.

FIG. 45 shows illustrative plunger rod 4510. Plunger rod 4510 mayinclude first operational trigger 4516 and final stage delivery trigger4518. Plunger rod 4510 may include helical tract 4522. Helical tract4522 may support final stage delivery trigger 4518 adjacent tolongitudinal tract 4524. Helical tract 4522 may support intermediatetrigger 4517. In operation, trigger 4517 may provide indication of theend of a pre-delivery function, such as mixing, and the beginning of alater pre-delivery function, such as priming.

FIG. 46 shows illustrative plunger rod 4610. Rod 4610 may include firstoperational trigger 4616. Rod 4610 may include final stage deliverytrigger 4618. Rod 4610 may include helical tract 4622 and longitudinaltract 4624. Helical tract 4622 may support final stage delivery trigger4618 adjacent to longitudinal tract 4624.

FIG. 47 shows illustrative plunger rod 4710. Rod 4710 may include firstoperational trigger 4716. Rod 4710 may include final stage deliverytrigger 4718. Rod 4710 may include helical tract 4722. Helical tract4722 may support final stage delivery trigger 4718 adjacent tolongitudinal tract 4724. Helical tract 4722 may have a longitudinal spanthat is shorter than that of helical tract 4622 (shown in FIG. 46 ). Ashort span may provide for delivery of medicaments that do not requiremixing or extensive priming.

FIG. 48 shows illustrative plunger rod 4810. Rod 4810 may include firstoperational trigger 4816. Rod 4810 may include final stage deliverytrigger 4818. Rod 4810 may include helical tract 4822. Helical tract4822 may support final stage delivery trigger 4818 adjacent tolongitudinal tract 4824. Helical tract 4822 may have a higher pitch(each revolution corresponding to a greater longitudinal translation)than that of helical tract 4622 (shown in FIG. 46 ).

FIG. 49 shows illustrative plunger rod 4910. Rod 4910 may include firstoperational trigger 4916. Rod 4910 may include final stage deliverytrigger 4918. Rod 4910 may include helical tract 4922. Helical tract4922 may support final stage delivery trigger 4918 adjacent tolongitudinal tract 4924. Helical tract 4922 may include a distal portionthat has a higher pitch than that of a proximal portion (closer than isthe distal portion to final stage delivery trigger 4918).

FIG. 50 shows illustrative plunger rod 5010. Rod 5010 may include firstoperational trigger 5016. Rod 5010 may include final stage deliverytrigger 5018. Rod 5010 may include longitudinal tract 50101. Rod 5010may include longitudinal tract 5024. Longitudinal tract 50101 may becircumferentially displaced relative to longitudinal tract 5024.Circumferential tract 5007 may bridge circumferentially betweenlongitudinal tract 50101 and longitudinal tract 5024. Longitudinal tract50101 may support intermediate trigger 5017 adjacent to circumferentialtract 5007. Circumferential tract 5007 may support final stage deliverytrigger 5018 adjacent to longitudinal tract 5024. Tract 50101 may beused to provide one or more pre-delivery functions. Circumferentialtract 5007 may provide for transition from pre-delivery functions todelivery functions provided by longitudinal tract 5024.

FIG. 51 shows illustrative plunger rod 5110. Rod 5110 may include firstoperational trigger 5116. Rod 5110 may include final stage deliverytrigger 5118. Rod 5110 may include longitudinal tract 51101. Rod 5110may include longitudinal tract 5124. Longitudinal tract 51101 may becircumferentially displaced relative to longitudinal tract 5124.Circumferential tract 5107 may bridge circumferentially betweenlongitudinal tract 51101 and longitudinal tract 5124. Longitudinal tract51101 may support intermediate trigger 5117 adjacent to circumferentialtract 5107. Circumferential tract 5107 may support final stage deliverytrigger 5118 adjacent to longitudinal tract 5124. Tract 51101 may beused to provide one or more pre-delivery functions. Circumferentialtract 5107 may provide for transition from pre-delivery functions todelivery functions provided by longitudinal tract 5124. Longitudinaltract 51101 may have a longitudinal span that is shorter than that oflongitudinal tract 50101 (shown in FIG. 50 ). A short span may providefor delivery of medicaments that do not require mixing or extensivepriming.

FIG. 52 shows illustrative plunger rod 5210. Rod 5210 may include firstoperational trigger 5216. Rod 5210 may include final stage deliverytrigger 5218. Rod 5210 may include longitudinal tract 52101. Rod 5210may include longitudinal tract 5224. Longitudinal tract 52101 may becircumferentially displaced relative to longitudinal tract 5224.Circumferential tract 5207 may bridge circumferentially betweenlongitudinal tract 52101 and longitudinal tract 5224. Longitudinal tract52101 may support first intermediate trigger 5217 a. Longitudinal tract52101 may support first intermediate trigger 5217 b. Longitudinal tract52101 may support second intermediate trigger 5217 b adjacent tocircumferential tract 5207. Longitudinal tract 52101 may support firstintermediate trigger 5217 a proximal to second intermediate trigger 5217b.

Circumferential tract 5207 may support final stage delivery trigger 5218adjacent to longitudinal tract 5224. Tract 52101 may be used to provideone or more pre-delivery functions. Circumferential tract 5207 mayprovide for transition from pre-delivery functions to delivery functionsprovided by longitudinal tract 5224.

In operation, first intermediate trigger 5217 a may provide indicationof the end of a pre-delivery function, such as mixing, and the beginningof a later pre-delivery function, such as priming. In operation, secondintermediate trigger 5217 b may provide indication of the end of thelater pre-delivery function.

FIG. 53 shows illustrative plunger rod 5310. Rod 5310 may include firstoperational trigger 5316. Rod 5310 may include final stage deliverytrigger 5318. Rod 5310 may include longitudinal tract 53101. Rod 5310may include longitudinal tract 5324. Longitudinal tract 53101 may becircumferentially displaced relative to longitudinal tract 5324.Circumferential tract 5307 may bridge circumferentially betweenlongitudinal tract 53101 and longitudinal tract 5324. Longitudinal tract53101 may support intermediate trigger 5317 adjacent to circumferentialtract 5307. Circumferential tract 5307 may support final stage deliverytrigger 5318 adjacent to longitudinal tract 5324. Longitudinal tract5324 may have a longitudinal span that is greater than that oflongitudinal tract 5124 (shown in FIG. 51 ). Longer longitudinal span ofa longitudinal tract proximal to a final stage delivery trigger mayprovide longer delivery stroke. Longer longitudinal span of alongitudinal tract proximal to a final stage delivery trigger mayprovide delivery of a larger target amount of medicament.

FIG. 54 shows illustrative delivery device 5400. Delivery device 5400may have one or more features in common with one or more of devices 100(shown in FIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ), 2500 (shown in FIG. 25 )and 2800 (shown in FIG. 28 ). Delivery device 5400 may include knob5402, collar 5405, finger flange 5480, housing 5470, medicamentcontainer 5450, medicament 5460, plunger rod 5410 and plunger 5456.

Delivery device 5400 may define longitudinal axis L. Delivery device5400 is shown in a state that may be a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 5400 may be fully assembled. Inthe pre-operational state, delivery device 5400 may be prepared forpriming. In the pre-operational state, delivery device 5400 may beprepared for preparation of medicament for discharge. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 5400 may be prepared fordischarge of medicament. In the pre-operational state, discharge ofmedicament from delivery device 5400 may not have begun.

Knob 5402 may be disposed coaxially with axis L.

Rod 5410 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Rod 5410 may be acomponent of a mixing configuration (not shown). Knob 5402 may bethreadingly attached to rod 5410.

Container 5450 may be a component of a mixing configuration (not shown).Container 5450 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Container 5450 maybe cylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form. Adistal portion of rod 5410 may be disposed within container 5450.

Container 5450 may contain medicament component 5460. Container 5450 maybe engaged with plunger 5456. A distal end of rod 5410 may abut aproximal surface of plunger 5456.

Housing 5470 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Housing 5470 may becylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form.

Finger flange 5480 may be separate from housing 5470. Finger flange 5480may be attached to housing 5470. Finger flange 5480 may be integral tohousing 5470.

Collar 5405 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Collar 5405 may becylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form.Collar 5405 may be attached to finger flange 5480. Collar 5405 may beintegral to finger flange 5480. Collar 5405 may be attached to housing5470. Collar 5405 may be integral to housing 5470.

FIG. 54A shows a view of part of the interior of collar 5405. Collar5405 may include anti-rotation projections 5491, which may include one,two or more anti-rotation projections. Collar 5405 may include bearingsurface 54108. Knob 5405 may include one or more tangs such as tang54103.

FIG. 55 shows features of delivery device 5400. FIG. 55 shows knob 5402.Knob 5402 may contain threads 5592 (shown in phantom) internal to knob5402. Knob 5402 may support abutment surface 5503. Knob 4502 may ainclude keyway, such keyway 55104, which may be one of numerous keyways.Keyway 55104 may include a slot.

Knob 5402 may include turn ridges 5506. Turn ridges 5506 may be utilizedby the operator to effect rotation of knob 5402 about axis L.

Turn ridges 5506 may be spaced circumferentially around knob 5402. Turnridges 5506 being spaced regularly about the circumference of knob 5402may provide the operator a measure of an extent of rotation performed.

Distal rod end 5511 may define a distal end of anti-rotation slot 5561.Anti-rotation slot 5561 may be parallel to axis L. Distal rod end 5511may include one or more additional anti-rotation slots or features (notshown) distributed about the circumference of rod 5410 in a regular orirregular manner. Anti-rotation slot 5561 may extend all or some of theway proximally to threads 5562. Threads 5562 may extend proximally someor all of the way to proximal rod end 5568. Threads 5562 may engagethreads 5592 of knob 5402.

Container 5450 may be disposed in device 5400 distal to finger flange5480. Container 5450 may be disposed in housing 5470 distal to fingerflange 5480. Proximal rim 5553 of container 5450 surrounding a proximalopening of container 5450 may be recessed in device 5400 distal tofinger flange 5480. Proximal rim 5553 of container 5450 may be recessedin device 5400. Device 5400 may include recess 5539. Recess 5539 mayreceive rim 5553.

Knob 5402 may be disposed coaxially within collar 5405. Collar 5405 mayinclude viewing window 5569. Collar 5405 may support index surface55109.

Device 5400 may include indicator sleeve 55105. Sleeve 55105 may bedisposed coaxially within collar 5405. Knob 5402 may be disposedcoaxially within sleeve 55105. Sleeve 55105 may include signage 5508.Signage 5508 may be visible through window 5569.

Sleeve 55105 may include one or more keys such as key 55107. Key 55107may be a rail. Key 55107 may engage keyway 55104. Engagement of key55107 and keyway 55104 may rotationally engage sleeve 55105 with knob5402. Sleeve 55105 may support one or more teeth such as tooth 55110.Tooth 55110 may engage tang 54103 (shown in FIG. 54A) to retain sleeve55105 within collar 5405. Engagement of tang 54103 and tooth 55110 mayretain tooth 55105 against bearing surface 55108 (shown in FIG. 54A).

Rod 5410 may be contained in container 5450 with distal end 5511abutting plunger proximal face 5551. Proximal rod end 5568 may extendproximally into collar 5405. Proximal rod end 5568 may extend proximallyinto sleeve 55105. Knob 5402 may extend distally into sleeve 55105 tothreadingly engage rod 5410. Knob 5402 may extend distally into collar5405 to threadingly engage rod 5410.

FIG. 56 shows a cross-sectional view along view lines 56-56 (shown inFIG. 54 ). FIG. 56 shows device 5400 in a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, device 5400 may be ready for priming. X shows thedistance away from index surface 55109. Abutment surface 5503 may be ata position x₀ from index surface 55109. Rod 5410 may abut plunger 5456within container 5450. Distal plunger face 5457 may seal medicament 5460within container 5450.

Y shows the distance away from container inflection point 5693. Distalface 5657 may be disposed at a distance y₀ from inflection point 5693near a distal end of container 5450. Inflection point 5693 is at adistal termination of a constant diameter of container 5450 andillustrates an arbitrary reference point along an inner sidewall ofcontainer 5450 to show how medicament discharge is proportional tomovement of other elements of the device. Distal to inflection point5630, the sidewall of container 5430 may include shoulder 56100.

When knob 5402 is displaced longitudinally along direction B into collar5405, abutment surface 5503 will move to position x₁ and will abut indexsurface 55109, thus priming device 5400.

FIG. 57 shows abutment surface 5503 abutting index surface 55109. Thedevice is now in a post-priming, pre-delivery state. Distal face 5657has been displaced from position y₀ to position y₁ and has advancedmedicament 5460 out of the distal end of device 5400. Knob 5402 may nowbe rotated in direction C. Projection 5491 may rotationally retain rod5410. Projection 5491 may rotationally retain rod 5410 by interferencewith slot 5561. As such, rotation of knob 5402 causes knob 5403 to backaway from index surface 55109.

FIG. 58 shows knob 5402 backed-off from index surface 55109 so thatabutment surface 5503 is positioned at x₂. Distal face 5657 remains atposition y₁ (indicated also as y₂ to show that y₂ corresponds to thestate of the device when abutment surface 5503 is at x₂). Sleeve 55105may rotate in tandem with knob 5402, thus moving signage 5508 to show adifferent portion of signage 5508 (shown in FIG. 55 ) through window5569 (shown in FIG. 55 ). The portion of signage 5508 that is visiblethrough window 5569 may indicate a target amount of medicament to bedelivered by longitudinal movement of knob 5402 in direction B.

When knob 5402 is displaced longitudinally along direction B into collar5405, abutment surface 5503 will move to position x₁ and will abut indexsurface 55109, thus priming device 5400.

FIG. 59 shows device 5400 in a post-delivery state. Abutment surface5503 may abut index surface 55109 at position x₃ (which coincides withthe position of abutment surface 5503 at the end of priming). Distalface 5657 has been displaced to position y₃ and has advanced the targetamount of medicament 5460 out of the distal end of device 5400.

FIG. 60 shows illustrative delivery device 6000. Delivery device 6000may have one or more features in common with one or more of devices 100(shown in FIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ), 2500 (shown in FIG. 25 ),2800 (shown in FIG. 28 ) and 5400 (shown in FIG. 54 ). Delivery device6000 may include knob 6002, collar 6005, finger flange 6080, medicamentcontainer 6050, medicament 6060, plunger rod 6010 and plunger 6056.

Delivery device 6000 may define longitudinal axis L. Delivery device6000 is shown in a state that may be a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 6000 may be fully assembled. Inthe pre-operational state, delivery device 6000 may be prepared forpre-delivery functions that may include priming. In the pre-operationalstate, delivery device 6000 may be prepared for preparation ofmedicament for discharge. In the pre-operational state, delivery device6000 may be prepared for discharge of medicament. In the pre-operationalstate, discharge of medicament from delivery device 6000 may not havebegun.

Knob 6002 may be disposed coaxially with axis L.

Rod 6010 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Rod 6010 may be acomponent of a mixing configuration (not shown). Knob 6002 may bethreadingly attached to rod 6010.

Container 6050 may be a component of a mixing configuration (not shown).Container 6050 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Container 6050 maybe cylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form. Adistal portion of rod 6010 may be disposed within container 6050.

Container 6050 may contain medicament component 6060. Container 6050 maybe engaged with plunger 6056. A distal end of rod 6010 may abut aproximal surface of plunger 6056.

Collar 6005 may be disposed coaxially with axis L. Collar 6005 may becylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form.Collar 6005 may be attached to finger flange 6080. Collar 6005 may beintegral to finger flange 6080.

FIG. 60A shows a view of part of the interior of collar 6005. Collar6005 may include one or more anti-rotation projections such asanti-rotation projection 6091. Collar 6005 may include bearing surface60108. Knob 6005 may include one or more tangs such as tang 60103.

FIG. 61 shows features of delivery device 6000. FIG. 61 shows knob 6002.Knob 6002 may contain threads 6192 (shown in phantom) internal to knob6002. Knob 6002 may support abutment surface 6103. Knob 4502 may ainclude keyway, such keyway 61104, which may be one of numerous keyways.Keyway 61104 may include a slot.

Knob 6002 may include turn ridges 6106. Turn ridges 6106 may be utilizedby the operator to effect rotation of knob 6002 about axis L.

Turn ridges 6106 may be spaced circumferentially around knob 6002. Turnridges 6106 being spaced regularly about the circumference of knob 6002may provide the operator a measure of an extent of rotation performed.

Distal rod end 6111 may define a distal end of anti-rotation slot 6161.Anti-rotation slot 6161 may be parallel to axis L. Distal rod 6110 mayinclude one or more additional anti-rotation slots or features (notshown) distributed about the circumference of rod 6010 in a regular orirregular manner. Anti-rotation slot 6161 may extend all or some of theway proximally to threads 6162. Threads 6162 may extend proximally someor all of the way to proximal rod end 6168. Threads 6162 may engagethreads 6192 of knob 6002.

Container 6050 may be disposed in device 6000 distal to finger flange6080. Proximal rim 6153 of container 6050 surrounding a proximal openingof container 6050 may be recessed in device 6000 distal to finger flange6080. Proximal rim 6153 of container 6050 may be recessed in device6000. Device 6000 may include recess 6139. Recess 6139 may receive rim6153.

Knob 6002 may be disposed coaxially within collar 6005. Collar 6005 mayinclude viewing window 6169.

Device 6000 may include indicator sleeve 61105. Sleeve 61105 may bedisposed coaxially within collar 6005. Knob 6002 may be disposedcoaxially within sleeve 61105. Sleeve 61105 may include signage 6108.Signage 6108 may be visible through window 6169.

Sleeve 61105 may include key 61107 (shown in phantom line). Key 61107may be a rail. Key 61107 may engage keyway 61104. Engagement of key61107 and keyway 61104 may rotationally engage sleeve 61105 with knob6002. Sleeve 61105 may support sleeve distal surface 61102. Sleevedistal surface 61102 may lie against bearing surface 60108 (shown inFIG. 60A). Tang 60103 may retain sleeve 61105 within collar 6005.Engagement of tang 60103 sleeve 61105 may retain sleeve distal surface61102 against bearing surface 61108.

Rod 6010 may be contained in container 6050 with distal end 6111abutting plunger proximal face 6151. Proximal rod end 6168 may extendproximally into collar 6005. Proximal rod end 6168 may extend proximallyinto sleeve 61105. Knob 6002 may extend distally into sleeve 61105 tothreadingly engage rod 6010. Knob 6002 may extend distally into collar6005 to threadingly engage rod 6010.

FIG. 62 shows a cross-sectional view along view lines 62-62 (shown inFIG. 60 ). FIG. 62 shows sleeve 61105. Sleeve 61105 may include indexsurface 62109. Device 6000 may be in a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, device 6000 may be ready for pre-deliveryfunctions, which may include priming. X shows the distance away fromindex surface 62109. Abutment surface 6103 may be at a position x₀ fromindex surface 62109. Rod 6010 may abut plunger 6056 within container6050. Distal plunger face 6257 may seal medicament 6060 within container6050.

Y shows the distance away from container inflection point 6293. Distalface 6257 may be disposed at a distance y₀ from inflection point 6293near a distal end of container 6050. Inflection point 6293 is at adistal termination of a constant diameter of container 6050 andillustrates an arbitrary reference point along an inner sidewall ofcontainer 6050 to show how medicament discharge is proportional tomovement of other elements of device 6000. Distal to inflection point6230, the sidewall of container 6030 may include shoulder 62100.

When knob 6002 is displaced longitudinally along direction B into collar6005, abutment surface 6103 will move to position x₁ and will abut indexsurface 62109, thus priming device 6000.

FIG. 63 shows abutment surface 6103 abutting index surface 62109. Thedevice is now in a post-priming, pre-delivery state. Distal face 6257has been displaced from position y₀ to position y₁ and has advancedmedicament 6060 out of the distal end of device 6000. Knob 6002 may nowbe rotated in direction C. Projection 6091 may rotationally retain rod6010. Projection 6091 (shown in FIG. 60A) may rotationally retain rod6010 by interference with slot 6161 (shown in FIG. 61 ). As such, therotation of knob 6002 may cause knob 6002 to back away from indexsurface 62109.

FIG. 64 shows knob 6002 backed-off from index surface 62109 so thatabutment surface 6103 is positioned at x₂. Distal face 6257 remains atposition y₁ (indicated also as y₂ to show that y₂ corresponds to thestate of the device when abutment surface 6103 is at x₂). Sleeve 61105may rotate in tandem with knob 6002, thus moving signage 6108 to show adifferent portion of signage 6108 (shown in FIG. 61 ) through window6169 (shown in FIG. 61 ). The portion of signage 6108 that is visiblethrough window 6169 may indicate a target amount of medicament to bedelivered by longitudinal movement of knob 6002 in direction B.

When knob 6002 is displaced longitudinally along direction B into collar6005, abutment surface 6103 will move to position x₁ and will abut indexsurface 62109, thus completing pre-delivery functions, such as priming,of device 6000.

FIG. 65 shows device 6000 in a post-delivery state. Abutment surface6103 may abut index surface 62109 at position x₃ (which coincides withthe position of abutment surface 6103 at the end of a pre-deliveryfunction, such priming). Distal face 6257 has been displaced to positiony₃ and has advanced the target amount of medicament 6060 out of thedistal end of device 6000.

FIG. 66 shows illustrative medicament delivery device 6600. Deliverydevice 6600 may have one or more features in common with one or more ofdevices 100 (shown in FIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ), 2500 (shown inFIG. 25 ), 2800 (shown in FIG. 28 ), 5400 (shown in FIG. 54 ) and 6000(shown in FIG. 60 ).

Delivery device 6600 may define longitudinal axis L. Delivery device6600 is shown in a state that may be a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 6600 may be fully assembled. Inthe pre-operational state, delivery device 6600 may be prepared forpriming. In the pre-operational state, delivery device 6600 may beprepared for preparation of medicament for discharge. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 6600 may be prepared fordischarge of medicament. In the pre-operational state, discharge ofmedicament from delivery device 6600 may not have begun.

Delivery device 6600 may include proximal knob 6602. Knob 6602 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Grip 6601 may be provided on knob 6602.

Delivery device 6600 may include plunger rod 6610. Rod 6610 may be acomponent of a mixing configuration (not shown). Knob 6602 may bethreadingly attached to rod 6610.

Delivery device 6600 may include medicament container 6650. Container6650 may be a component of a mixing configuration (not shown). Container6650 may be disposed coaxial with axis L. Container 6650 may becylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form. Adistal portion of rod 6610 may be disposed within container 6650.

Container 6650 may contain medicament component 6660. Container 6650 maybe engaged with plunger 6656. A distal end of rod 6610 may abut aproximal surface of plunger 6656.

Delivery device 6600 may include finger flange 6680.

Delivery device 6600 may include collar 6605. Collar 6605 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Collar 6605 may be cylindrical, partiallycylindrical or have any other suitable form. Collar 6605 may be attachedto finger flange 6680. Collar 6605 may be integral to finger flange6680. Collar 6605 may include window 6669. Knob 6602 may beconcentrically disposed within collar 6605. Knob 6602 may includesignage 6608. Signage 6608 may be visible through window 6669.

FIG. 67 shows features of delivery device 6600. FIG. 67 shows knob 6602.Knob 6602 may contain threads 6792 (shown in phantom) internal to knob6602.

Grip 6601 may contribute to traction on knob 6602 for effectinglongitudinal translation of rod 6610. Grip 6601 may contribute toergonomic finger contact of the operator with knob 6602 for effectinglongitudinal translation of rod 6610. The finger contact with knob 6602through grip 6601 may conduct tactile feedback to the operator of anextent of distal longitudinal translation of rod 6610 along axis L.

Grip 6601 may include turn ridges 6706. Turn ridges 6706 may be utilizedby the operator to effect rotation of knob 6602 about axis L. Turnridges 6706 may contribute to traction on knob 6602 for effectingtranslation of rod 6610. Turn ridges 6706 may contribute to ergonomicfinger contact of the operator with knob 6602 for effecting translationof rod 6610 through rotation of knob 6602. The finger contact with turnridges 6706 may conduct tactile feedback to the operator of an extent oftranslation of rod 6610 along axis L.

Turn ridges 6706 may be spaced circumferentially around knob 6602. Turnridges 6706 may be spaced regularly around a circumference of grip 6601.Turn ridges 6706 being spaced regularly about the circumference of grip6601 may provide the operator a measure of an extent of rotationperformed.

Signage 6608 may include turn-direction signage. Knob 6602 may includeturn direction signage. In the operational state, delivery device 6600may effect distal displacement of rod 6610 within container 6650 inresponse to rotation of knob 6602 about axis L in only one of tworotational directions. Signage 6708 may provide the operator with cuesas to an effective rotational direction. The cues may serve as remindersbefore and/or during the operational state. The cues may be visual. Thecues may be tactile.

As depicted, the effective rotational direction for distal displacementof rod 6610 within container 6650 in response to rotation of knob 6602about axis L may be clockwise for delivery device 6600. (For someembodiments, not shown, counter-clockwise rotation may the effectiverotational direction. For some embodiments, turn direction signage mayprovide cues for counter-clockwise rotation.)

Distal rod end 6711 may define a distal end of anti-rotation slot 6761.Anti-rotation slot 6761 may be parallel to axis L. Distal rod end 6711may include one or more additional anti-rotation slots or features (notshown) distributed about the circumference of rod 6610 in a regular orirregular manner. Anti-rotation slot 6761 may extend all or some of theway proximally to threads 6762. Threads 6762 may extend proximally someor all of the way to proximal rod end 6768. Threads 6762 may engagethreads 6792 of knob 6602.

Container 6650 may be disposed in device 6600. Proximal rim 6753 ofcontainer 6650 surrounding a proximal opening of container 6650 may berecessed in device 6600. Container 6650 may include container component6650 a and container component 6650 b. Container components 6650 a and6650 b may be displaced toward each other transversely relative to axisL to enclose rim 6753 within recesses 6739 a and 6739 b (shown inphantom).

Rod 6610 may be contained in container 6650 with distal end 6711abutting plunger proximal face 6751. Proximal rod end 6768 may extendproximally into collar 6605. Knob 6602 may extend distally into collar6605 to threadingly engage rod 6610.

Collar 6605 may include one or more anti-rotation projections suchanti-rotation projection 6791. Anti-rotation projection 6791 may extendinto anti-rotation slot 6761. A corresponding anti-rotation slot andanti-rotation projection may be engaged on the opposite side of rod6610. Engagement of one or more of the projections in one or more of theslots may operationally prevent rotation of rod 6610.

With rotation of rod 6610 prevented by interaction of rod 6610 andprojection 6791 and with knob 6602 being threadingly engaged with rod6610, rotation of knob 6602 may displace rod 6610 axially.

FIG. 68 shows collar 6605. Collar 6605 may include boss 6842. Boss 6842may be disposed on an interior portion of collar 6605. Boss 6842 mayinclude a tab that extends radially inward. Collar 6605 may include oneor more auxiliary tabs such as auxiliary tab 68112. Auxiliary tab 68112may be disposed interior collar 6605. Auxiliary tab 68112 may extendradially inward. Boss 6842 may extend radially inward farther than doesauxiliary tab 68112.

Knob 6602 may include operational track 6820. Operational track 6820 maybegin at lateral surface 6827. Operational track 6820 may includeannular tract 6807. Knob 6602 may include one or more circumferentialplateaus such as circumferential plateau 68113. Circumferential plateau68113 may extend radially outward.

When assembled, lateral surface 6827 may be circumferentially alignedwith boss 6842 (as shown by a broken line). Boss 6842 may be engagedwith annular tract 6807. Engagement of boss 6842 with annular tract 6807may operationally prevent longitudinal motion of knob 6602 relative tocollar 6605. Circumferential plateau 68113 may be engaged with boss6842. Circumferential plateau 68113 may be engaged with auxiliary tab68112. Engagement of circumferential plateau 68113 with annular tract6807 may operationally prevent longitudinal motion of knob 6602 relativeto collar 6605. Engagement of circumferential plateau 68113 withauxiliary tab 68112 may operationally prevent longitudinal motion ofknob 6602 relative to collar 6605.

FIG. 69 shows device 6600 assembled in a pre-operational state, in anorientation corresponding to that shown in FIG. 68 , with lateralsurface 6827 circumferentially aligned with boss 6842.

FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 70-70 (shown inFIG. 69 ). FIG. 70 shows rod 6610 coaxially disposed within knob 6602.Knob 6602 is concentric to collar 6605. Knob 6602 may extend into collar6605. X shows the distance away from interior knob surface 7009 ofproximal rod end 6768. Proximal rod end 6768 may be at a position x₀from interior surface 9009. Rod 6610 may abut plunger 6656 withincontainer 6650. Distal plunger face 7057 may seal medicament 8360 withincontainer 6650.

Y shows the distance away from container inflection point 7093 of distalplunger face 7057. Distal face 7057 may be disposed at a distance y₀from inflection point 7093 near a distal end of container 6650.Inflection point 7093 is at a distal termination of a constant diameterof container 6650 and illustrates an arbitrary reference point along aninner sidewall of container 6605 to show how medicament discharge isproportional to movement of other elements of the device. Distal toinflection point 7093, the sidewall of container 6650 may includeshoulder 70100. Window 6669 may reveal a portion of signage 6608. Theportion may indicate that medicament preparation functions such aspriming has not yet begun.

Collar 6605 may include retaining clip 70115. Knob 6602 may include clipdock 70116. In the pre-operational state, retaining clip 70115 may becircumferentially aligned with clip dock 70116. Retaining clip 70115 maybe engaged with clip dock 70116. Engagement of retaining clip 70115 withclip dock 70116 may block knob 6602 from inadvertent rotation relativeto collar 6605 prior to operation.

FIG. 70A shows details of the view of device 6600 shown in FIG. 70 .FIG. 70A shows rod 6610 within knob 6602, which is within collar 6605.Rod thread 6762 may be engaged with knob thread 6792. Annular tract 6807may be disposed radially inward from collar 6605. Circumferentialplateau 68113 may be disposed proximal to annular tract 6807 in the viewprovided by FIG. 70 . Auxiliary tab 68112 may be disposedcircumferentially away from plateau 68113 at the pre-operational statedepicted. Retaining clip 70115 is shown engaged with clip dock 70116.

FIG. 71 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 71-71 (shown inFIG. 70 ). FIG. 71 shows rod 6610 disposed concentric to and within knob6602. Knob 6602 may be concentric to and within collar 6605. Boss 6842is shown disposed alongside lateral surface 6827 of track 6820. Track6820 may include longitudinal tract 7124. Arrow A indicates rotation ofknob 6602 that may shift longitudinal tract 7124 toward auxiliary tab68112.

Angle Φ gives the rotational displacement between knob 6602 and collar6605. In the pre-operational state of rotation, Φ is ϕ₀. Rotation ofknob 6602 in the direction of arrow A past auxiliary tab 68112 may bringlongitudinal tract 7124 into alignment with boss 6842.

FIG. 72 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along view lines 72-72(shown in FIG. 70 ) proximal to collar 6605. In this view through rod6610 and knob 6602, a proximal surface of collar 6605 lying below theplane of the cross-section can be seen in the same orientation as isshown in FIG. 71 . In this orientation, circumferential plateau 68113may be partly proximally covering boss 6842. Longitudinal tract 7124 mayterminate circumferentially at lateral surface 7297.

FIG. 73 shows device 6600 in a state different from that shown in FIG.70 . Knob 6602 is shown rotated relative to its position vis-à-viscollar 6605 as shown in FIG. 70 . The rotation of knob 6602 isillustrated to have caused a longitudinal translation of rod 6610.Proximal rod end 6768 has been shifted longitudinally from position x₀to position x₁. The distal shift of rod 6610 within container 6650 hasdistally displaced plunger 6656 so that distal face 7057 is disposed atposition y₁, thus driving medicament 6660 out of the distal end of thedevice. The medicament may be driven out in proportion to the rotationof knob 6602 within collar 6605. Signage 6608 viewed through window 6669may indicate that the rotation has begun to occur.

FIG. 74 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 74-74 (shown inFIG. 73 ). FIG. 74 shows knob 6602 rotated relative to collar 6605 toangle ϕ₁. Further rotation in Φ may abut lateral surface 7297 against alateral surface of boss 6842 circumferentially facing lateral surface7297. The further rotation in Φ may bring longitudinal tract 7124 intoalignment with boss 6842.

FIG. 75 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along view lines 75-75(shown in FIG. 73 ) proximal to collar 6605. In this view through rod6610 and knob 6602, the proximal surface of collar 6605 lying below theplane of the cross-section can be seen in the same orientation as isshown in FIG. 74 .

FIG. 76 shows delivery device 6600 in a state different from that shownin FIG. 73 . The state shown in FIG. 76 may correspond to termination ofrotation of knob 6602 within collar 6605. The rotation of knob 6602 isillustrated to have caused a longitudinal translation of rod 6610.Proximal rod end 6768 has been shifted longitudinally to position x₂.The distal shift of rod 6610 within container 6650 has distallydisplaced plunger 6656 so that distal face 7057 is disposed at positiony₂ relative to inflection point 7093, thus driving medicament 6660 outof the distal end of the device. The medicament may be driven out inproportion to the rotation of knob 6602 within collar 6605. Signage 6608may indicate through window 6769 that the rotation has terminated andthe device is ready for medicament delivery by longitudinal distaldisplacement of knob 6602 relative to collar 6605.

FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 77-77 (shown inFIG. 76 ). FIG. 77 shows knob 6602 rotated relative to collar 6605 toangle 4)₂. Lateral surface 7297 may abut against the lateral surface ofboss 6842 circumferentially facing lateral surface 7297. Boss 6842 maybe aligned with longitudinal tract 7124 (blocked from view by boss6842).

FIG. 78 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along view lines 78-78(shown in FIG. 76 ) proximal to collar 6605. In this view through rod6610 and knob 6602, the proximal surface of collar 6605 lying below theplane of the cross-section can be seen in the same orientation as isshown in FIG. 77 .

FIG. 79 shows device 6600, in the same state as that shown in FIG. 76 ,at termination of rotation. Lateral surface 7297 may circumferentiallyabut boss 6842. Longitudinal tract 7124 may be in alignment with boss6842. Boss 6842 may circumferentially lie entirely within longitudinaltract 7124. Longitudinal tract 7124 may include terminal surface 7912. Zgives the distance of boss 6842 from terminal surface 7912. In the viewshown, Z is z₀. When Z is z₀, device 6600 is ready for, but has not yetbegun, delivery of medicament 6660. When knob 6602 will be displacedlongitudinally along into collar 6605, medicament 6660 is discharged.Medicament discharge may be terminated by abutment of boss 6482 againstterminal surface 7912.

FIG. 80 is a view of knob 6602 showing terminal surface 7912. FIG. 80provides a view of terminal surface 7912 in relation to longitudinaltract 7124 and lateral surface 7297. This view shows an intersection ofannular tract 6807 and longitudinal tract 7124 adjacent lateral surface7297. Lateral surface 7297 may circumferentially terminate track 6820 inthe direction of rotation. Terminal surface 7912 may lie at the proximalterminus of longitudinal tract 7124.

FIG. 81 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along lines 81-81 (shownin FIG. 80 ). FIG. 81 provides another view of terminal surface 7912 inrelation to longitudinal tract 7124 and lateral surface 7297.

FIG. 82 shows device 6600, inverted to illustrate a medicament deliveryorientation, upon completion of medicament delivery. Longitudinaldisplacement of knob 6602 relative to collar 6605 brings boss 6842 intoabutment with terminal surface 7912, thus terminating longitudinaldisplacement of rod 6610 and plunger 6656. Z is now z₁, which is aboutzero. The difference z₀-z₁ may correspond to a target amount ofmedicament to be delivered. Distal face 7057 may be displaced to y₃. Thedistance between y₂ and y₃ is proportional, through the diameter of thecontainer, to the target amount. Position y₃ may be proximal toinflection point 7093. Position y₃ may be longitudinally even withinflection point 7093. When distal face 7057 is at y₃, a residuum ofmedicament 6660 may remain between distal face 7057 and distal end ofcontainer 6650. When distal face 7057 is at y₃, a residuum of medicament6660 may remain between distal face 7057 and shoulder 70100. Theresiduum may be a bulk liquid. The bulk liquid may have a volume that isgreater than the volume of a film or a drop that would be expected toadhere to container 6650.

Distal face 7057 is thus detained prior to crossing inflection point7093. This may avoid deformation of distal face 7057 against shoulder70100. The deformation may cause a discrepancy between the target amountand the actual amount discharged through the distal end of device 6600.

FIG. 83 shows illustrative medicament delivery device 8300. Deliverydevice 8300 may have one or more features in common with one or more ofdevices 100 (shown in FIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ), 2500 (shown inFIG. 25 ), 2800 (shown in FIG. 28 ), 5400 (shown in FIG. 54 ), 6000(shown in FIG. 60 ) and 6600 (shown in FIG. 66 ).

Delivery device 8300 may define longitudinal axis L. Delivery device8300 is shown in a state that may be a pre-operational state. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 8300 may be fully assembled. Inthe pre-operational state, delivery device 8300 may be prepared forpriming. In the pre-operational state, delivery device 8300 may beprepared for preparation of medicament for discharge. In thepre-operational state, delivery device 8300 may be prepared fordischarge of medicament. In the pre-operational state, discharge ofmedicament from delivery device 8300 may not have begun.

Delivery device 8300 may include proximal knob 8302. Knob 8302 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Grip 8301 may be provided on knob 8302.

Delivery device 8300 may include plunger rod 8310. Rod 8310 may be acomponent of a mixing configuration (not shown). Knob 8302 may bethreadingly attached to rod 8310.

Delivery device 8300 may include medicament container 8350. Container8350 may be a component of a mixing configuration (not shown). Container8350 may be disposed coaxial with axis L. Container 8350 may becylindrical, partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form. Adistal portion of rod 8310 may be disposed within container 8350.

Container 8350 may contain medicament component 8360. Container 8350 maybe engaged with plunger 8356. A distal end of rod 8310 may abut aproximal surface of plunger 8356.

Delivery device 8300 may include device housing 8370. Housing 8370 maybe disposed coaxial with axis L. Housing 8370 may be cylindrical,partially cylindrical or have any other suitable form.

Delivery device 8300 may include finger flange 8380. Finger flange 8380may be separate from housing 8370. Finger flange 8380 may be attached tohousing 8370. Finger flange 8380 may be integral to housing 8370.

Delivery device 8300 may include collar 8305. Collar 8305 may bedisposed coaxial with axis L. Collar 8305 may be cylindrical, partiallycylindrical or have any other suitable form. Collar 8305 may be attachedto finger flange 8380. Collar 8305 may be integral to finger flange8380. Collar 8305 may be attached to housing 8370. Collar 8305 may beintegral to housing 8370.

FIG. 84 shows features of delivery device 8300. FIG. 84 shows knob 8302.Knob 8302 may contain threads 8492 (shown in phantom) internal to knob8302.

Grip 8301 may contribute to traction on knob 8302 for effectinglongitudinal translation of rod 8310. Grip 8301 may contribute toergonomic finger contact of the operator with knob 8302 for effectinglongitudinal translation of rod 8310. The finger contact with knob 8302through grip 8301 may conduct tactile feedback to the operator of anextent of distal longitudinal translation of rod 8310 along axis L.

Knob 8302 may include turn ridges 8406. Turn ridges 8406 may be utilizedby the operator to effect rotation of knob 8302 about axis L. Turnridges 8406 may contribute to traction on knob 8302 for effectingtranslation of rod 8310. Turn ridges 8406 may contribute to ergonomicfinger contact of the operator with knob 8302 for effecting translationof rod 8310 through rotation of knob 8302. The finger contact with turnridges 8406 may conduct tactile feedback to the operator of an extent oftranslation of rod 8310 along axis L.

Turn ridges 8406 may be spaced circumferentially around knob 8302. Turnridges 8406 may be spaced regularly around a circumference of grip 8301.Turn ridges 8406 being spaced regularly about the circumference of grip8301 may provide the operator a measure of an extent of rotationperformed.

Knob 8302 may include turn direction signage 8408. In the operationalstate, delivery device 8300 may effect distal displacement of rod 8310within container 8350 in response to rotation of knob 8302 about axis Lin only one of two rotational directions. Turn direction signage 8408may provide the operator with cues as to an effective rotationaldirection. The cues may serve as reminders before and/or during theoperational state. The cues may be visual. The cues may be tactile.

As depicted, the effective rotational direction for distal displacementof rod 8310 within container 8350 in response to rotation of knob 8302about axis L may be clockwise for delivery device 8300. (For someembodiments, not shown, counter-clockwise rotation may the effectiverotational direction. For some embodiments, turn direction signage mayprovide cues for counter-clockwise rotation.)

Distal rod end 8411 may define a distal end of anti-rotation slot 8461.Anti-rotation slot 8461 may be parallel to axis L. Distal rod end 8411may include one or more additional anti-rotation slots or features (notshown) distributed about the circumference of rod 8310 in a regular orirregular manner. Anti-rotation slot 8461 may extend all or some of theway proximally to threads 8462. Threads 8462 may extend proximally someor all of the way to proximal rod end 8468. Threads 8462 may engagethreads 8492 of knob 8302.

Rod 8310 may include flat face 8464. Flat face 8464 may be parallel toaxis L. Rod 8310 may include one or more additional flat faces (notshown) distributed about the circumference of rod 8310 in a regular orirregular manner. Flat face 8464 may extend all or some of the way fromnear anti-rotation slot 8461 to proximal end 8468. Flat face 8464 may belongitudinally coextensive with threads 8462. Flat face 8464 may becircumferentially displaced from slot 8461. The circumferentialdisplacement may be 90° of arc from slot 8461.

Container 8350 may be disposed in device 8300 distal to finger flange8380. Container 8350 may be disposed in housing 8370 distal to fingerflange 8380. Proximal rim 8453 of container 8350 surrounding a proximalopening of container 8350 may be recessed in device 8300 distal tofinger flange 8380. Proximal rim 8453 of container 8350 may be recessedin housing 8370.

Knob 8302 may be disposed coaxially within collar 8305. Collar 8305 mayinclude viewing window 8469. A portion of signage 8408 may be visiblethrough window 8469.

Rod 8310 may be contained in container 8350 with distal end 8411abutting plunger proximal face 8451. Proximal rod end 8468 may extendproximally into collar 8305. Knob 8302 may extend distally into collar8305 to threadingly engage rod 8310.

FIG. 85 shows collar 8305. Collar 8305 may include boss 8542. Collar8305 may include flexible panel 8566. Flexible panel 8566 may beincluded in boss 8542. Boss 8542 may be disposed on an interior portionof collar 8305. Flexible panel 8566 may be disposed on an interiorportion of collar 8305.

Knob 8302 may include operational track 8520. Operational track 8520 maybegin at lateral surface 8527. Adjacent lateral face 8527, track 8520may include protrusion 8514. Boss 8542 may slidingly engage track 8520.Flexible panel 8566 may interact with protrusion 8514.

FIG. 86 is a cross-sectional view taken along viewlines 86-86 (shown inFIG. 85 ). FIG. 86 shows track 8520 and lateral surface 8527 disposed ona periphery of knob 8302. Track 8520 may include annular tract 8607.Annular track 8607 may support protrusion 8414. Annular tract 8607 maysupport protrusion 8618. Track 8520 may include longitudinal tract 8624.Track 8520 may include running surface 8628.

FIG. 87 shows knob 8302 extending into collar 8305 such that flexiblepanel 8566 of collar 8305 is adjacent protrusion 8514 of knob 8302.

FIG. 88 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 88-88 (shown inFIG. 85 ). FIG. 88 shows collar 8305, boss 8542 and flexible panel 8566.

FIG. 89 shows a view of collar 8305 that is different from the viewshown in FIG. 88 . FIG. 89 shows boss 8542 and flexible panel 8566.Flexible panel 8566 may include free end 8995. Opening O in collar 8305may be adjacent to flexible panel 8566.

FIG. 90 shows delivery device 8300 assembled in a pre-operational state.Knob 8302 may extend into collar 8305. Flexible panel 8566 may beadjacent to protrusion 8514. X shows the distance away from interiorknob surface 9009 of proximal rod end 8468. Proximal rod end 8468 may beat a position x₀ from interior surface 9009. Rod 8310 may abut plunger8356 within container 8350. Distal plunger face 9057 may seal medicament1860 within container 8350. Y shows the distance away from containerinflection point 9093 of distal plunger face 9057. Distal face 9057 maybe disposed at a distance y₀ from inflection point 9093 near a distalend of container 8350. Inflection point 9093 is at a distal terminationof a constant diameter of container 8350 and illustrates an arbitraryreference point along an inner sidewall of container 8350 to show howmedicament discharge is proportional to movement of other elements ofthe device. Distal to inflection point 9030, the sidewall of container8530 may include shoulder 90100. Window 8569, shown in detail in inset,distal to finger flange 8380 reveals signage 8508.

FIG. 91 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 91-91 (shown inFIG. 90 ) and rotated about 180° from the view shown in FIG. 90 . FIG.91 shows signage 2508 through window 8569. The cross-section throughfinger flange 8380 shows rod 8310 and slot 8461. Anti-rotationprojection 9191 may extend into anti-rotation slot 8461. A correspondinganti-rotation slot and anti-rotation projection (shown, but notnumbered) may be present on the opposite side of rod 8310. Engagement ofone or more of the projections in one or more of the slots mayoperationally prevent rotation of rod 8310.

FIG. 92 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 92-92 (shown inFIG. 90 ). FIG. 92 shows rod 8310 concentric within knob 8302. Knob 8302is within and concentric to collar 8305. Boss 8542 is shown with aninner radial surface disposed alongside annular tract 8607. Protrusion8514 lies between free end 8995 of flexible panel 8566 and the rest ofboss 8542. Arrow A indicates rotation of knob 8302 that may shiftlongitudinal tract 8624 alongside boss 8542.

Angle ϕ gives the rotational displacement between knob 8302 and collar8305. In the pre-operational state of rotation, Φ is ϕ₀. Rotation ofknob 8302 in the direction of arrow A may bring free end 8995 of panel8566 into interaction with protrusion 8514. The interaction may cause adeflection of free end 8995. The interaction may cause a deflection ofpanel 8566. The interaction may produce a sensible indication. Theindication may be tactile, acoustic or both. Opening O (shown in FIG. 89) may contribute to sensibility of acoustic indication.

With rotation of rod 8310 prevented by interaction of rod 8310 andprojection 9191 (shown in FIG. 91 ) and with knob 8302 being threadinglyengaged with rod 8310, rotation of knob 8302 may displace rod 8310axially.

After free end 8995 passes over protrusion 8514 in direction A,protrusion 8514 interferes with free end 8995, thus preventingback-rotation of knob 8302.

FIG. 93 shows device 8300 in a state different from that shown in FIG.90 . Knob 8302 is shown rotated relative to its position vis-à-viscollar 8305 as shown in FIG. 90 . (The rotational position of knob 8302in FIG. 85 corresponds to the rotational position of knob 8302 in FIG.90 . The rotational position of knob 8302 in FIG. 93A corresponds therotational position of knob 8302 in FIG. 93 .)

FIG. 93A shows knob 8302 by itself in the same orientation in which itis shown in FIG. 93 . FIG. 93A shows annular tract 8607 and longitudinaltract 8624 of track 8520. Running surface 8628 is visible. Longitudinaltract 8624 of track 8620 is visible. Annular tract 8607 is visible.

FIG. 93 shows free end 8995 of boss 8566 alongside running surface 8628.The rotation of knob 8302 is illustrated to have caused a longitudinaltranslation of rod 8310. Proximal rod end 8468 has been shiftedlongitudinally from position x₀ (shown in FIG. 90 ) to position x₁. Thedistal shift of rod 8310 within container 8350 has distally displacedplunger 8356 so that distal face 9057 is disposed at position y₁, thusdriving medicament 8360 out of the distal end of the device. Themedicament may be driven out in proportion to the rotation of knob 8302within collar 8305. Signage 8408 may indicate through window 8469 thatthe rotation has begun to occur.

FIG. 94 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 94-94 (shown inFIG. 93 ). FIG. 94 shows knob 8302 rotated relative to collar 8305 toangle ϕ₁. Further rotation in Φ may bring boss 8542 into longitudinaltract 8624.

FIG. 95 shows delivery device 8300 in a state different from that shownin FIG. 93 . The state shown in FIG. 95 may correspond to termination ofrotation of knob 8302 within collar 8305.

FIG. 95A shows knob 8302 by itself in the same orientation in which itis shown in FIG. 95 . FIG. 95A shows annular tract 8607 intersectinglongitudinal tact 8624. Projection 8618 may be contiguous or nearcontiguous with intersection of annular tract 8607 and longitudinal tact8624.

FIG. 95 shows free end 8995 of boss 8566 alongside protrusion 8618. Therotation of knob 8302 is illustrated to have caused a longitudinaltranslation of rod 8310. Proximal rod end 8468 has been shiftedlongitudinally to position x2. The distal shift of rod 8310 withincontainer 8350 has distally displaced plunger 8356 so that distal face9057 is disposed at position y₂ relative to inflection point 9093, thusdriving medicament 8360 out of the distal end of the device. Themedicament may be driven out in proportion to the rotation of knob 8302within collar 8305. Signage 8408 may indicate through window 8469 thatthe rotation has terminated and the device is ready for medicamentdelivery by longitudinal distal displacement of knob 8302 relative tocollar 8305.

FIG. 96 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 96-96 (shown inFIG. 95 ). FIG. 96 shows knob 8302 rotated relative to collar 8305 toangle ϕ₂. The rotation now has brought boss 8542 into longitudinal tract8624. The rotation has brought free end 8995 into interaction withprotrusion 8618 as panel 8655 passed over protrusion 8618. Theinteraction may cause a deflection of free end 8995. The interaction maycause a deflection of panel 8566. The interaction may produce a sensibleindication. The indication may be tactile, acoustic or both. After freeend 8995 passes over protrusion 8618 and enters longitudinal tract 8624,protrusion 8618 interferes with free end 8995, thus preventingback-rotation of knob 8302. Lateral surface 9697 interferes with boss8542, thus preventing further rotation of knob 8302. Boss 8542 is nowconfined to longitudinal tract 8624 and the device is prepared fordelivery of medicament as a result of distal longitudinal displacementof knob 8302 relative to collar 8305.

FIG. 97 shows device 8300 inverted to illustrate a medicament deliveryorientation. Longitudinal tract 8624 includes terminal surface 9712(shown in break-away view). Z gives the distance of boss 8542 fromterminal surface 9712. In the view shown, Z is z₀. When Z is z₀, device8300 is ready for, but has not yet begun, delivery of medicament 8360.When knob 8302 is displaced longitudinally along direction B into collar8305, medicament 8360 is discharged.

FIG. 98 shows device 8300 upon completion of medicament delivery.Longitudinal displacement of knob 8302 relative to collar 8305 bringsboss 8542 into abutment with terminal surface 9712, thus terminatinglongitudinal displacement of rod 8310 and plunger 8356. Z is now z₁,which is about zero. Distal face 9057 is displaced to y₃. The distancebetween y2 and y₃ is proportional, through the diameter of thecontainer, to the target amount. Position y₃ may be proximal toinflection point 9093. Position y₃ may be longitudinally even withinflection point 9093. When distal face 9057 is at y₃, a residuum ofmedicament 8360 may remain between distal face 9057 and distal end ofcontainer 8350. When distal face 9057 is at y₃, a residuum of medicament8360 may remain between distal face 9057 and shoulder 90100. Theresiduum may be a bulk liquid. The bulk liquid may have a volume that isgreater than the volume of a film or a drop that would be expected toadhere to container 8350.

Distal face 9057 is thus detained prior to crossing inflection point9093. This may avoid deformation of distal face 9057 against shoulder90100. The deformation may cause a discrepancy between the target amountand the actual amount discharged through the distal end of device 8300.

FIG. 99 shows illustrative delivery device 9900. Device 9900 may haveone or more features in common with one or more of devices 100 (shown inFIG. 1 ), 1500 (shown in FIG. 15 ), 2500 (shown in FIG. 25 ), 2800(shown in FIG. 28 ), 5400 (shown in FIG. 54 ), 6000 (shown in FIG. 60 ),6600 (shown in FIG. 66 ) and 8300 (shown in FIG. 99 ).

Delivery device 9900 may define longitudinal axis L. Device 9900 mayinclude knob 9902, collar 9905, finger flange 9980, housing 9970,medicament container 9950, medicament 9960, plunger rod 9910 and plunger9956. Knob 9902 may include boss 9942. Collar 9905 may include signage9908. Signage 9908 may be visible through housing 9970. Boss 9942 may bevisible through housing 9970.

Boss 9942 may project radially outward from axis L. Knob 9902 may bedisposed concentrically within collar 95. Boss 9942 may project radiallyinward. Collar 9905 may be disposed concentrically within knob 9902.

FIG. 100 shows knob 9902. Knob 9902 may include flexible panel 10066.Flexible panel 10066 may support boss 9942. Knob 9902 may be affixed torod 9910. Rod 9910 may be of monolithic manufacture with rod 9910.

FIG. 101 is a cross-sectional view taken along view lines 101-101 (shownin FIG. 100 ). FIG. 101 shows knob 9902. Knob 9902 may include proximalinterior surface 10109. Proximal interior surface 10109 may support rod9910. Proximal interior surface 10109 and rod 9910 may be threadinglyengaged. Rod 9910 and knob 9902 may rotate together. Rotation of knob9902 may cause rotation of rod 9910.

FIG. 102 shows collar 9905. Collar 9905 may include track 10220. Track10220 may include helical tract 10222. Track 10220 may includelongitudinal tract 10224. Helical tract 10222 may intersect longitudinaltract 10224. Track 10220 may radially, with respect to axis L, traversethe thickness of a wall of collar 9905. Longitudinal tract 10224 mayterminate at distal terminal surface 10212. Track 10220 may supportpre-operational trigger 10214. Pre-operational trigger 10214 mayreleasably retain boss 9942 (shown in FIG. 99 ). Track 10222 may supportfinal stage delivery trigger 10218 adjacent to longitudinal tract 10224.Rotation of knob 9902 within collar 9905 may axially displace rod 9910(shown in FIG. 99 ). Rotation of knob 9902 within collar 9905 may moveboss 9942 along track 10220 and along signage 9908.

Boss 9942 may interfere with pre-operational trigger 10214. Boss 9942may interfere with pre-delivery trigger 10218. Interference between boss9942 and pre-operational trigger 10214 may deflect flexible panel 10066(shown in FIG. 99 ). Interference between boss 9942 and pre-deliverytrigger 10214 may deflect flexible panel 10066. Deflection of flexiblepanel 10066 may provide indication of progress of medicament discharge.The position of boss 9942 relative to signage 9908 during the rotationmay provide an indication of the relative amount of medicament 9960(shown in FIG. 99 ) that has been discharged from device 9900.

After boss 9942 passes final stage delivery trigger 10218 during therotation, boss 9942 may abut lateral surface 10297 of longitudinal tract10224, terminating the rotation. Distal longitudinal motion of knob 9902may cause abutment of boss 9942 against terminal surface 10212. Abutmentof boss 9942 against terminal surface 10212 may terminate medicamentdelivery from device 9900. Travel of boss 9942 distally along the fullextent of longitudinal tract 10224 may effect delivery of the targetamount.

Rotation of knob 9902 may effect pre-operational functions, such aspriming, of device 9900. Longitudinal distal motion of knob 9902 afterthe rotation may effect delivery of medicament 9960 from device 9900.

Thus, apparatus and methods for medicament delivery have been provided.Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the present inventioncan be practiced by other than the described embodiments, which arepresented for purposes of illustration rather than of limitation. Thepresent invention is limited only by the claims that follow.

1-189. (canceled)
 190. A medicament delivery device defining alongitudinal axis and comprising: a plunger rod guide that defines apassageway and supports a boss, the passageway coaxial with the axis andconfigured to receive a plunger rod that defines a track that supports atrigger, the guide being configured to deflect, responsive tointeraction between the boss and the trigger, radially relative to theaxis; and a finger flange that supports the guide and comprises asurface that defines, distal to the guide, a recess configured toreceive a proximal portion of a medicament container, the recessextending transverse to the axis and the container being disposedcoaxial with the axis.
 191. The device of claim 190 wherein the trackextends: radially inward from a cylindrical surface of the rod; andalong the cylindrical surface.
 192. The device of claim 190 wherein: thetrigger is a protrusion; the interaction is an interference between theboss and the trigger; and the guide is configured to deflect away fromthe axis.
 193. The device of claim 190 wherein: the container defines abore bound by an interior uniform diameter, the rod is disposed in thepassageway and is configured to be displaced distally, within the bore,to discharge medicament from the container until the boss abuts aterminal surface of the track, thereby limiting motion of the boss,relative to the rod, to motion that is directed away from the terminalsurface and parallel to the axis; and the segment includes a distalportion that, in operation, contacts a bulk liquid residuum of themedicament after the boss abuts the terminal surface.
 194. The device ofclaim 193 wherein the distal portion of the segment directly contactsthe residuum.
 195. The device of claim 193 further comprising: at leastone plunger slideably sealing against the interior wall, the at leastone plunger disposed distal the rod and configured to slide distallyresponsive to distal displacement of the rod; and a stopper sealing adistal end of the container, the medicament, prior to discharge of themedicament, sealed within the container between the stopper and the atleast one plunger, the distal end of the container configured to beassociated with a needle having a cannula that is configured to distallytransfer a dose amount of the medicament discharged from the container.196. The device of claim 195 wherein the boss abuts the terminal surfaceprior to interference of a distal face of the at least one plunger withan inner distal wall of the container, the inner distal wall having acomponent transverse to the axis.
 197. The device of claim 190 whereinthe finger flange is configured to maintain the container at leastpartly coaxial with the axis.
 198. The device of claim 190 wherein theproximal portion of the medicament container includes a flanged lip.199. The device of claim 198 wherein a contour of a section of theflanged lip is complementary to a region of the surface defining therecess.
 200. The device of claim 190 wherein a cylindrical surface of aproximal section of the rod supports a knob that encompasses thesection, the knob being coaxial with the axis.
 201. The device of claim200 wherein the knob is configured to be rotated about the axis and tobe longitudinally translated along the axis, the rod being configured tomove, relative to the medicament container, in response to motion of theknob.
 202. The device of claim 201 wherein the knob comprises signageindicating a direction of rotation about the axis associated with distaldisplacement of the rod.
 203. The device of claim 190 wherein the rod isdisposed in the passageway after the proximal portion of the medicamentcontainer is received by the recess.
 204. The device of claim 190wherein the finger flange comprises two or more sections configured tosnap together onto the proximal portion of the medicament container.205. The device of claim 204 wherein the two or more sections aremechanically identical.
 206. The device of claim 190 wherein: the fingerflange defines an internal bay, wherein: the guide is suspended acrossthe bay by a support extending in a first direction; and, in a seconddirection, the guide deflects responsive to the interaction between theboss and the trigger.
 207. The device of claim 206 wherein the firstdirection is transverse to a proximal face of the finger flange, theproximal face of the finger flange being transverse to the axis. 208.The device of claim 206 wherein, in the second direction, the bayaccommodates deflection of the guide.
 209. The device of claim 206wherein the support is a first support and the guide is suspended by thefirst support and by a second support.
 210. The device of claim 206wherein the guide is suspended proximal to the bay.
 211. The device ofclaim 206 wherein the guide is suspended at least partly within the bay.212. The device of claim 206 wherein the first direction is transverseto the second direction.
 213. The device of claim 208 wherein thesupport is configured to deform in response to the deflection.
 214. Thedevice of claim 213 wherein deformation of the support relieves stressin the finger flange.
 215. The device of claim 206 wherein the guideincludes an arm that defines the passageway and supports the boss apartfrom an end of the guide from which the guide is suspended.
 216. Thedevice of claim 190 wherein: the track is a first track and the triggeris a first trigger; the rod further defines a second track that isdisposed parallel to the first track and supports a second trigger; theboss is a first boss engaging the rod at the first track; the guidefurther supports a second boss, the second boss engaging the rod at thesecond track; the interaction is a first interaction; a first deflectionof the guide relative to the axis is responsive to the first interactionbetween the first boss and the first trigger, and a second deflection ofthe guide relative to the axis is responsive to a second interactionbetween the second boss and the second trigger.
 217. The device of claim216 wherein the tracks, triggers and bosses are configured to providethe first deflection and the second deflection at least approximatelysimultaneously.
 218. The device of claim 193 wherein: the track isproximal, along a cylindrical surface of the rod, to a distal end of therod, the track supporting the terminal surface proximal the trigger; alength, along a tract of the track, that is disposed between the triggerand the terminal surface corresponds to a delivery stroke of the rod,the delivery stroke discharging from the container a dose amount of themedicament; and the boss engages the rod at the track and provides areactive surface that, with the boss abutting the terminal surface,delimits distal displacement of the rod within the container,terminating the delivery stroke.
 219. The device of claim 218 whereinthe boss engages the rod at the track by being positioned against a sideof the track.
 220. The device of claim 218 wherein the boss engages therod at the track by extending into the track.
 221. The device of claim218 wherein: the tract is substantially parallel to the axis; and, withthe boss engaging the tract, the reactive surface limits rotationalmovement of the rod about the axis.
 222. The device of claim 218wherein: the tract is helicoidal about the axis; and, with the bossengaging the tract, the reactive surface converts rotational movement ofthe rod about the axis into axial movement of the rod along the axis.223. The device of claim 193 wherein: the trigger is a first trigger andthe track further supports a second trigger, wherein: a first deflectionof the guide, responsive to the boss interacting with the first trigger,corresponds to a first stage of distal displacement of the rod in thecontainer; and a second deflection of the guide, responsive to the bossinteracting with the second trigger, corresponds to a second stage ofdistal displacement of the rod in the container.
 224. The device ofclaim 223 wherein: the track is proximal, along a cylindrical surface ofthe rod, to a distal end of the rod; the first trigger is supported by aproximal portion of a distal longitudinal tract of the track, theproximal portion being adjacent a distal portion of an intermediatetract of the track, the intermediate tract being disposed along thecylindrical surface between the distal tract and a proximal tract of thetrack; and the first stage is an initial distal displacement of the rod,the initial displacement positioning the rod in the device prior tooperation.
 225. The device of claim 224 wherein: the second trigger issupported by a distal portion of the intermediate tract; and the secondstage is an initiation of operation of the device.
 226. The device ofclaim 225 wherein: the intermediate tract is helicoidal about the axis ahelical pitch of a portion of the intermediate tract is sufficientlyhigh to transduce, with the boss providing a reactive surface inengagement with the high pitched portion of the intermediate tract, adistally directed longitudinal force applied to a proximal end of therod into a rotary force; and in operation, the rotary force drives arotation of the rod, the rotation included in the second stage.
 227. Thedevice of claim 225 wherein the initiation includes preparation, fordischarge, of the medicament.
 228. The device of claim 227 wherein thepreparation includes conversion of the medicament from a storage form ofthe medicament to a dischargeable form of the medicament.
 229. Thedevice of claim 228 wherein the storage form of the medicament includes:a first component; and a second component stored apart from the firstcomponent; wherein a mixture of the first component and the secondcomponent includes the dischargeable form of the medicament.
 230. Thedevice of claim 227 wherein the preparation includes discharge of airfrom the container prior to delivery of the medicament.
 231. The deviceof claim 224 wherein: the second trigger is supported by a proximalportion of the intermediate tract, the proximal portion of theintermediate tract being adjacent a distal portion of the proximaltract, the proximal tract supporting the terminal surface; and thesecond stage is initiation of delivery of the medicament.
 232. Thedevice of claim 231 wherein a length along the proximal tract proximalto the second trigger and distal to the terminal surface corresponds toa delivery stroke of the rod, the delivery stroke discharging from thecontainer a dose amount of the medicament.
 233. The device of claim 232wherein: the intermediate tract is at least partly parallel to the axis;the proximal tract is at least partly parallel to the axis and iscircumferentially displaced from the intermediate tract; the proximalportion of the intermediate tract and the distal portion of the proximaltract are conjoined by an at least partly circumferential tract of thetrack; and, in operation, the delivery stroke is enabled by a rotationof the rod shifting the boss, in engagement with the track, from theintermediate tract through the circumferential tract to the proximaltract.
 234. The device of claim 233 wherein the proximal tract isdisplaced by about 90 degrees from the intermediate tract.
 235. Thedevice of claim 232 wherein tactile indication of completion of thedelivery stroke is provided by abutment of the boss against the terminalsurface.
 236. The device of claim 190 wherein a deflection of the guide,responsive to the interaction occurring at a stage of a distaldisplacement of the rod within the bore, produces an indication of theinteraction, signaling initiation of the stage.
 237. The device of claim236 wherein the indication is tactile.
 238. The device of claim 237wherein one or more properties of one or more of the boss, the guide,the trigger, the track, the rod, the finger flange and the container,determine one or more of an amplitude of the indication and a durationof the indication, the properties including geometry, lubricity andresilience.
 239. The device of claim 236 wherein the indication isacoustic.
 240. The device of claim 239 wherein one or more properties ofone or more of the boss, the guide, the trigger, the track, the rod, thefinger flange and the container, determine one or more of an amplitudeof the indication, a pitch of the indication and a duration of theindication, the properties including geometry, lubricity and resilience.241-282. (canceled)